If you are craving a fresh, vibrant, and delightfully flavorful meal, the Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad is going to become your new go-to. Combining tender, juicy chicken thighs glazed in a luscious honey mustard sauce with crisp butter lettuce, peppery radishes, creamy avocado, and tangy blue cheese, this salad bursts with color and a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. Every bite offers a satisfying crunch and an irresistible blend of textures that feel just as indulgent as a hearty meal yet light enough to keep you feeling energized. Trust me, the Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad isn’t just another salad—it’s a celebration in a bowl you’ll want to make again and again.

Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to bringing out the full magic of this salad. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the seasoning that brings umami depth, the crisp veggies for crunch, or the honey mustard dressing that ties everything together with its perfect harmony of sweet and tangy.

Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful with the right amount of fat, perfect for absorbing the honey mustard glaze.
Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika: Essential for seasoning the chicken to amplify its savory notes and add a warm smoky undertone.
Honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard: The stars of the honey mustard glaze and dressing, these create a bright, balanced sweetness and tanginess.
Butter lettuce: Soft and tender leaves offer a mild base that lets the other ingredients shine.
Radishes: Add a peppery crunch and a pop of vibrant color.
Cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of sweetness to contrast with the tangy components.
Avocado: Creamy texture that smooths out the salad’s flavor profile.
Red onion: Offers bite and sharpness, balanced by the sweetness in the dressing.
Blue cheese (crumbled): Adds a bold, tangy punch and creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
Green onions: A fresh, mild onion flavor to finish the salad.
Extra virgin olive oil and garlic: Combined in the honey mustard vinaigrette to add richness and depth.

How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad

Step 1: Broil the Chicken

Preheat your oven broiler on high and position the rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Season the chicken thighs generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to build a flavorful crust. Place the chicken on the sheet and broil for 7 minutes, then flip and broil another 7 minutes. This technique guarantees tender chicken with a slight crisp on the edges—you’ll love how juicy it stays inside.

Step 2: Glaze the Chicken

While the chicken is broiling, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. This sweet-tangy glaze is what elevates the chicken to pure deliciousness. Brush this glaze onto each side of the chicken, then pop it back under the broiler for 2 minutes per side to caramelize that honey mustard coating. The result is a gorgeous, sticky exterior with layers of flavor built through multiple glaze applications.

Step 3: Chop and Combine the Salad

Once the chicken is cooled just enough to handle, cut it into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, combine your chopped butter lettuce, radishes, cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, chopped red onion, crumbled blue cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions. Add the chicken on top and lightly season everything with a pinch of salt and pepper so each ingredient shines through.

Step 4: Make the Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified and silky smooth. This vinaigrette brings incredible brightness and richness that perfectly complements the salad’s components.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Drizzle the honey mustard vinaigrette over the assembled salad and toss gently to evenly coat every ingredient. Your Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad is now ready to enjoy—a vibrant and irresistible mix of flavors and textures that will impress every time.

How to Serve Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad

Garnishes

To add flair and an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some toasted sliced almonds, a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or even a few crispy fried shallots on top. These little touches add crunch and a burst of additional freshness that turns your Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad from fantastic to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This salad works beautifully as a stand-alone meal, but if you’re feeding a crowd or want to round things out, consider serving it with crusty artisan bread or garlic naan to soak up the delicious juices. A light soup or roasted vegetables would also complement the flavors nicely without overpowering the salad’s vibrant profile.

Creative Ways to Present

For something special, serve the Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad in individual mason jars or clear bowls so the layers of colorful ingredients show through. You could also use large lettuce leaves as edible bowls or create composed salad platters with the ingredients artistically arranged for guests to assemble themselves. Presentation like this makes it feel festive and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the salad crisp and fresh, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving. The chicken stays flavorful and juicy when properly stored, ready for a quick next-day meal.

Freezing

Freezing the full salad is not recommended because the fresh vegetables and dressing won’t hold up well once thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately without the glaze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and freshly glaze with honey mustard before adding to your salad.

Reheating

Reheat any leftover cooked chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, brushing with a bit of the honey mustard glaze to restore its signature flavor and moisture. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender. Once warm, add it to fresh chopped salad ingredients and dress right before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to dry out more quickly than thighs. To keep them juicy, be careful not to overcook and consider marinating them in the honey mustard mixture before broiling.

Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?

You can easily make a vegetarian Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad by swapping the chicken for grilled tofu or crispy roasted chickpeas. The honey mustard vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with these plant-based proteins.

How spicy is the salad?

This salad is mild in heat, largely focusing on sweet and tangy flavors. If you want to add a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mustard glaze or some sliced jalapeños as a topping.

Can I prepare the salad ahead of time for a picnic or potluck?

Yes! Just keep the dressing and salad components separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess. Pack the chicken, veggies, cheese, and dressing in separate containers and toss everything together right before eating.

How do I make the honey mustard vinaigrette creamier?

For a creamier dressing, whisk in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the honey mustard vinaigrette. This adds richness without overpowering the bright flavors of the salad.

Final Thoughts

You really cannot go wrong with the Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad. It’s bright, fresh, and comforting all at once, delivering a bowl filled with vibrant flavors and textures that make every mealtime feel special. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a stunning salad to impress guests, this recipe will quickly become a firm favorite. Give it a try and watch how this delightful salad quickly wins a spot on your regular menu rotation!

Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 6 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 33 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish combining tender broiled chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, fresh butter lettuce, crisp radishes, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, sharp red onions, and crumbly blue cheese. Tossed with a homemade honey mustard vinaigrette, this salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal meal for lunch or dinner.

Instructions

Preheat the broiler: Heat the broiler on your oven to high and position an oven rack about 6 inches below the heat source. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Season and broil the chicken: Season the chicken thighs on both sides evenly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and broil for 7 minutes. Flip the chicken and broil for another 7 minutes.
Glaze the chicken: While the chicken is broiling, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Brush this honey mustard glaze over the chicken, then broil for 2 more minutes. Flip the chicken again, brush on more glaze, and broil 2 additional minutes more for a sticky, caramelized finish.
Prepare the chicken for salad: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool slightly. Cut into 1-inch cubes or bite-sized pieces for the salad.
Make the honey mustard vinaigrette: In a bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. While whisking vigorously, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil to emulsify the dressing. This vinaigrette can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine chopped butter lettuce, a pinch of salt and pepper, diced radishes, chopped cherry tomatoes, chopped avocado, chopped red onion, crumbled blue cheese, chopped green onions, and the cubed chicken. Drizzle the honey mustard vinaigrette over the salad. Toss everything gently to coat evenly and serve immediately.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or the vinaigrette.
Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Use fresh and ripe avocado to enhance creaminess in the salad.
The vinaigrette can be made in advance and stored in the fridge; just shake or whisk before using.
Feel free to substitute blue cheese with feta or goat cheese if desired.
This salad can be served warm or chilled based on preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Broiling, assembling
Cuisine: American