Craving a fresh, flavorful meal that captures the vibrant taste of a beloved restaurant classic? Look no further than the Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken.

This enticing salad has been a fan favorite at Panera Bread for years, celebrated for its crisp vegetables, savory chicken, bold blue cheese, and, of course, the iconic Green Goddess dressing.

Recreating the Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken at home lets you savor all the delicious details of the original, with the bonus of customizing every ingredient to suit your tastes.

The history of the Green Goddess salad traces back to San Francisco in the 1920s, where the creamy, herb-packed dressing became a culinary staple. In Panera’s modern twist, nutrient-packed greens and lean protein join forces with tangy pickled onions and crunchy bacon, finishing with a drizzle of vibrant, herbaceous dressing.

Making the Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken at home gives you restaurant-quality flavor with simple, wholesome components. This recipe is perfect for a healthy lunch, satisfying dinner, or impressive dish for entertaining.

Whether you’re seeking a nourishing meal prep option or want to indulge in a classic you love, the Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken delivers freshness, balanced nutrition, and irresistible taste.

Let’s explore how you can prepare this show-stopping salad in your own kitchen and delight your family or guests with every bite.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
8 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, baby spinach)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered
6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled

½ cup pickled red onions
½ cup blue cheese crumbles
2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
For the Green Goddess Dressing:

½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup fresh parsley leaves
¼ cup fresh basil leaves

2 tablespoons chopped tarragon
2 tablespoons chopped chives
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1 garlic clove
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
Grill the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Set aside to rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
Prepare the Green Goddess dressing by blending mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, parsley, basil, tarragon, chives, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic in a food processor or blender. Add salt and pepper to taste and blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside in the refrigerator.
Arrange the mixed greens evenly on a large serving platter or individual plates.

Top the greens with segments of sliced grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon, pickled red onions, blue cheese crumbles, and chopped chives for a classic Cobb layout.
Drizzle generously with the Green Goddess dressing. Serve immediately, or chill for up to 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
Garnish with extra chives or a wedge of lemon for a fresh finish if desired.

Nutritional Information

The Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken is not just visually stunning but also rich in nutrients that contribute to overall well-being. Each serving boasts a fulfilling balance of macronutrients, making it an exceptional option for both lunch and dinner.

Packed with lean grilled chicken breast, this salad supplies a notable amount of high-quality protein, which supports muscle growth and repair while also keeping you satisfied for hours.

The mixture of leafy greens provides vital vitamins such as A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium, all of which play key roles in immune health and bone strength. Avocado adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, enhancing the salad’s satiating quality and offering a delectable creamy texture.

The hard-boiled eggs contribute more protein and a dose of essential nutrients like choline and vitamin D. Blue cheese, although bold in flavor, is used in moderation, providing calcium and additional protein. Crispy bacon amps up the classic Cobb flavors, but you can easily control how much you use.

Using Greek yogurt and fresh herbs in the Green Goddess dressing lightens it up compared to full-fat versions, offering probiotics, extra protein, and a punch of antioxidants from the herbs.

With a typical serving, expect about 550-650 calories, 35-40g protein, 35g healthy fats, and 13-18g net carbs, depending on portion sizes and customization. This nutrient-dense salad ensures you enjoy a satisfying meal while supporting your health goals.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Pairing a beverage with your Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken can elevate the dining experience. For a classic wine choice, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully, its citrus and herbal notes blending seamlessly with the dressing’s fresh herbs and tangy lemon profile.

Pinot Grigio or a lightly oaked Chardonnay are also excellent picks, especially if you favor a fuller-bodied white wine. For a non-alcoholic option, try infused sparkling water with lemon, cucumber, and fresh mint to echo the salad's refreshing qualities.

Lightly brewed iced green tea, served unsweetened or with a touch of honey, is another great match, providing gentle astringency that balances the richness of the egg and cheese.

If you're dining al fresco, a pitcher of homemade lemonade with basil or a zero-proof gin and tonic with lots of herbs works perfectly. These selections heighten the enjoyment of the Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken, making every meal feel special.

Cooking Tips and Variations

To make your Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken truly stand out, consider these expert cooking tips and delicious variations. Start by ensuring your chicken breasts are of even thickness so they cook evenly on the grill.

Marinating the chicken for 1-2 hours in a simple blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs can add leaps of flavor and extra juiciness. Don’t hesitate to swap in rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for a quick shortcut.

For an additional flavor twist, oven-roast the chicken with smoked paprika and garlic powder or pan-sear for a golden crust. Customize the salad greens by mixing in kale, iceberg, or your favorite lettuce blend. For extra crunch, add a handful of toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds.

If you prefer a dairy-free version, use vegan mayo and yogurt for the dressing, and omit the blue cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Replace bacon with turkey bacon or omit for a lighter dish. Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a new flavor profile.

To further boost nutrition, toss in chopped cucumber or thinly sliced radishes. The dressing can be made a day ahead—it actually improves in flavor as the herbs meld. Keep all salad components chilled until serving to maximize freshness and vibrant color.

Finally, present your salad in a classic Cobb arrangement for striking visual appeal, arranging each topping in neat rows for an impressive look.

Serving Suggestions

The Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken is a show-stopping dish perfect for both casual lunches and gatherings.

For a family meal, serve it in a generous salad bowl or arrange the toppings in distinct rows across a large platter, allowing everyone to admire the array of colors and textures before mixing. For individual servings, present the salad in wide, shallow bowls to showcase each ingredient.

This salad pairs well with freshly baked artisan bread or a simple baguette to soak up the delicious Green Goddess dressing. For a light meal, offer it as the main course alongside a crisp white wine or chilled sparkling water.

If you're entertaining, consider serving as part of a salad bar, letting guests customize their toppings and portions. For a quick lunch prep, divide the ingredients into meal prep containers, packing the dressing separately to keep the greens crisp.

Add a wedge of lemon or extra fresh herbs for brightness just before serving. In cooler months, offer the salad with a bowl of warm soup such as tomato basil or roasted vegetable, maintaining hearty, comforting notes to your meal.

No matter how you serve it, this salad stands out as a vibrant and satisfying main, delivering exceptional taste and nourishment with every forkful.

Health Benefits

The Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken is not only delectable but also packs a range of health benefits. The blend of dark leafy greens supplies ample antioxidants that help combat inflammation and protect cellular health.

Grilled chicken breast is a lean source of protein that supports healthy muscles, metabolism, and satiety. Avocado delivers essential monounsaturated fats, promoting heart health and optimal cholesterol levels, while also boosting the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins found in the greens.

The eggs provide high-quality protein and vital nutrients like choline for brain function and vitamin D for bone support. The herbs in the Green Goddess dressing, such as parsley and tarragon, are full of antioxidants and possess natural anti-inflammatory compounds.

The Greek yogurt base in the dressing introduces probiotics for digestive wellness, reducing reliance on processed dressings high in sugar or additives. Opting for moderate amounts of cheese and bacon keeps the dish balanced, while controlling sodium intake.

Overall, this salad is a smart choice for anyone seeking a meal that's both satisfying and health-conscious, suited for gluten-free and low-carb diets as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all the components in advance and store them separately. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

Can I use store-bought Green Goddess dressing?

While homemade dressing delivers the freshest flavor, a high-quality store-bought version can be used in a pinch. Check for clean ingredient labels for a healthier choice.

How can I make this salad vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and bacon, and add extra avocado or plant-based protein like baked tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly variation.

Is the Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, all primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check individual components, such as bacon or cheese, to ensure they're processed without gluten.

What are some alternative proteins I can use?

Try grilled shrimp, turkey breast, roasted salmon, or marinated tofu for delicious alternatives to chicken, keeping the salad exciting and varied.

Making your own Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad With Chicken transforms an everyday meal into something extraordinary, filled with vibrant flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a touch of restaurant elegance. This recipe empowers you to recreate a beloved Panera favorite with personalized customization, from choosing your freshest greens to perfecting the signature dressing. Ideal for health-conscious eaters, meal preppers, and salad lovers alike, it’s a versatile dish fit for any occasion. Serve it for lunch, dinner, or your next gathering—and delight in a nourishing, satisfying, and visually stunning salad experience every time.