Balsamic Chicken Cobb Salad with Pasta

Quick-Answer Summary Line: A delicious Balsamic Chicken Cobb Salad with Pasta that's perfect for holiday gatherings.

Format: Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 4 · Technique: Grilling · Storage: Up to 2 days in the fridge.

H2: Quick Answer: Marinate chicken in balsamic vinegar, grill it, and toss with pasta and fresh salad ingredients for a festive meal.

Introduction: As the vibrant leaves of fall usher us into the festive season here in New York City, I'm always on the lookout for dishes that are not only delicious but also embody the heartwarming spirit of gatherings. Enter my Balsamic Chicken Cobb Salad with Pasta! This dish effortlessly blends the classic Cobb salad with a delightful twist, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday meals, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. Let's dive right into this scrumptious recipe that I've crafted and perfected over the years.

Contextual H2: A Cozy Holiday Treat

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Combines classic Cobb salad flavors with pasta for a unique twist.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners.
• Easy to prepare with simple, fresh ingredients.
• The marinated chicken adds incredible flavor and tenderness.
• Offers a delightful balance of textures and freshness.

Ingredients

To capture the essence of this salad, here's what you will need:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Salad

• 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or rotini recommended)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• 4 strips of cooked bacon, crumbled
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Balsamic Chicken Cobb Salad with Pasta (Step-by-Step)

Let's dive right into this scrumptious recipe that's perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Let this sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to deeply infuse the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process; the pasta should be perfectly tender with just a bit of bite.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 7-8 minutes per side, or until it's no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, cooked pasta, and crumbled bacon. Gently toss these ingredients together to ensure an even distribution of colors and textures.

Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Cheese

Lay the sliced chicken on top of the salad and sprinkle the blue cheese generously over everything. Drizzle with a little extra balsamic vinegar and olive oil, if desired.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley for a fresh touch and dig in!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate is essential! Don't rush this step; it truly elevates the flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure your pasta is cooked to al dente. It should have a slight bite that holds up against the fresh ingredients.
• Under-seasoning: Don't forget to salt and pepper your chicken and pasta. These basics set the foundation for a flavorful salad.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Feel free to switch up the greens; baby spinach or arugula add their own unique flavors.
• For added crunch, consider tossing in some roasted nuts or seeds.
• Pair this salad with a light, crisp white wine or sparkling water infused with citrus for a festive touch.

Variations

• Substitute chicken with grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Replace blue cheese with feta for a different flavor profile.
• Use whole wheat pasta or quinoa to add more fiber and nutrients.
• Try adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

How to Serve

• Serve in a large bowl for family-style dining.
• Plate individual servings for a more formal presentation.
• Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of nuts before serving.
• Offer balsamic vinaigrette on the side for those who prefer extra dressing.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken and pasta ahead of time, marinate the chicken, and store it separately.
• Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet if desired, but serve the salad cold.
• Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze the assembled salad as the ingredients may not maintain their texture.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned

Through numerous tests of this recipe, I've discovered that marinating the chicken not only amplifies its flavor but also complements the freshness of the salad ingredients. This dish is a celebration of sharing during the holiday season, warmly inviting friends and family to gather at the table.

Yield and Serving Size

Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 salad bowl

Nutrition Snapshot

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~500 calories · 30g protein · 45g carbs · 25g fat

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