The Grilled Chicken Salad from Red Robin features tender grilled chicken breast atop a bed of fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, and crispy tortilla strips, tossed in your choice of zesty dressing for a healthy and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Salad spinner (optional)
- Mixing bowls
- Vegetable peeler (optional)
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Salad serving tongs or spoons
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup cucumber
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crispy tortilla strips
- Salad dressing of choice (zesty preferred)
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Ensure the chicken breasts are boneless and skinless for even grilling and easy slicing. Fresh mixed salad greens provide a crisp base, while cherry tomatoes and cucumbers add refreshing flavors and vitamins. Use shredded cheddar cheese for a rich texture, and crispy tortilla strips to introduce a satisfying crunch. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and olive oil before grilling to enhance its natural taste. Your version of the Grilled Chicken Salad from Red Robin will capture the zesty, hearty quality of the original copycat menu item.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Grill chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).
- Remove chicken from grill; let rest for 5 minutes.
- Wash and dry mixed salad greens (use salad spinner if available).
- Slice cherry tomatoes in halves.
- Peel and slice cucumber as desired.
- Shred cheddar cheese with cheese grater (if not pre-shredded).
- Slice grilled chicken breasts into strips.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add crispy tortilla strips.
- Toss salad ingredients together.
- Place salad mixture on serving plates.
- Top each salad with sliced grilled chicken breast.
- Drizzle salad dressing of choice over the top.
- Serve immediately using salad tongs or spoons.
Substitution
H. Grilled Chicken Salad from Red Robin copycat menu can be easily adapted by substituting grilled chicken breasts with grilled turkey or tofu for a different protein option. You can swap mixed salad greens for spinach or arugula if preferred or based on availability in your kitchen. When cherry tomatoes are out of season, halved grape tomatoes or diced red bell peppers work well to maintain color and texture. If you don't have tortilla strips, crushed baked tortilla chips or crispy pita chips can add similar crunch. Use your favorite zesty dressing, or mix olive oil with a squeeze of lemon and a dash of black pepper for a fresh homemade alternative.
Tips
Make sure your grill or grill pan reaches medium-high heat before cooking the chicken to ensure proper searing and juiciness. Resting the grilled chicken for 5 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful. Washing and thoroughly drying the salad greens helps prevent sogginess in your salad. Use measuring cups or spoons to control the amount of dressing and seasoning, keeping your salad balanced and delicious for your taste.
Nutritions
The Grilled Chicken Salad from Red Robin provides a balanced nutritional profile rich in protein from tender grilled chicken breasts, which are essential for muscle repair and growth. Fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers supply vitamins A, C, and K along with antioxidants that support immune health. Shredded cheddar cheese adds calcium and healthy fats, while crispy tortilla strips contribute a satisfying crunch and a source of carbohydrates. Your choice of zesty dressing can enhance flavor while adding varying amounts of fats and calories, so select options wisely based on your dietary needs.
Storage
Store grilled chicken breast in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Keep salad ingredients like mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded cheese separate from the chicken and dressing in sealed containers to avoid sogginess. Your tortilla strips should be stored in a dry place or added just before serving to retain their crisp texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken breasts with grilled shrimp or tofu for a protein variation that caters to different dietary preferences. Replace cheddar cheese with crumbled feta or blue cheese to add a tangy depth of flavor. Try swapping tortilla strips for roasted pepitas or toasted almonds to introduce a different crunchy texture. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and cumin before grilling to infuse more vibrant, zesty notes into your salad.
Allergies
The Grilled Chicken Salad from Red Robin contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and gluten from the crispy tortilla strips. Individuals with allergies to cheese or gluten should be cautious or request modifications to avoid these ingredients. Your choice of dressing may also contain allergens like eggs or soy, so reviewing its ingredients is important for allergy safety.
Why this recipe?
Red Robin's H. Grilled Chicken Salad is popular for its fresh ingredients, including tender grilled chicken breast, crisp greens, and a flavorful blend of vegetables. The salad offers a healthy yet satisfying option, making it perfect for those seeking a balanced meal without sacrificing taste. You'll appreciate the combination of textures and the well-seasoned dressing that complements the dish perfectly. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to enjoy this nutritious and delicious meal at home, customizing ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs.