If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s bursting with vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and wholesome goodness, then the Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This salad perfectly marries grilled, juicy chicken with the classic Caprese elements of creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all brought together by a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s light enough for a healthy lunch but satisfying enough for dinner, effortlessly combining savory, sweet, and fresh notes in every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be on repeat in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color. Whether it’s the tender balsamic-marinated chicken or the creamy avocado slices, these essentials come together to create a harmonious and visually stunning meal.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides lean protein that takes on the balsamic marinade wonderfully.
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy base for the marinade with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps keep the chicken juicy and enhances the marinade’s richness.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings a herby, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Offers subtle savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- ¼ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 4 cups mixed salad greens: Adds freshness and crunch as the salad base.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Their juicy sweetness contrasts perfectly with the savory elements.
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine): Creamy texture contributes to the classic Caprese profile.
- 1 avocado (sliced): Adds buttery richness and healthy fats.
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves: The fragrant herb that ties the whole salad together.
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze for drizzling: Provides a glossy, sweet-tart finish that elevates each bite.
How to Make Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This simple but flavorful marinade is the secret to tender, juicy chicken packed with savory and tangy notes. Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts and let them soak in all those delicious flavors for at least 15 minutes; if you have more time, letting them marinate for up to 2 hours will intensify the taste beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the pan and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice golden crust with fully cooked meat inside, juicy but firm to the touch. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes – this step ensures the juices redistribute so the meat stays moist when sliced.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
On a large platter or within a salad bowl, spread out the mixed greens as your base layer. Next, arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, avocado slices, and basil leaves evenly across the salad. The vibrant colors of the reds, greens, creamy whites, and smooth avocado make for a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Finish
Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin, juicy strips and layer them on top of the salad. The grilled chicken adds a hearty touch that contrasts wonderfully with the fresh vegetables and creamy mozzarella. Finally, drizzle the entire salad generously with balsamic glaze. This glossy, sweetened balsamic reduction ties all the elements together, enhancing the salad’s overall flavor and presentation.
How to Serve Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling some freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving for an extra flavor boost. A handful of toasted pine nuts can add a lovely crunch while a few delicate basil chiffonade strips will emphasize freshness.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up those balsamic glaze drips. Alternatively, a light soup like a tomato basil or minestrone can round out your meal beautifully without overwhelming the salad’s delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in a large shallow bowl or a rustic wooden platter for a charming presentation that invites sharing. For a buffet or party, consider assembling in individual mason jars layered with the ingredients for grab-and-go convenience and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover balsamic chicken Caprese salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To preserve freshness, store the dressing separately and add just before serving to avoid soggy greens.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended as the texture of the salad greens, avocado, and fresh mozzarella deteriorates when frozen. However, you can freeze the marinated but uncooked chicken if needed.
Reheating
If you have leftover cooked chicken, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave before adding it back to fresh salad ingredients. Avoid reheating the whole salad to maintain the crispness of the greens and fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional for a Caprese salad, mild cheeses like burrata or even sliced provolone can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the creamy texture of mozzarella complements the other ingredients really well.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap out the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative. The balsamic glaze and fresh veggies will still deliver incredible flavor.
How long does the marinade need to be on the chicken?
At least 15 minutes is great for a quick burst of flavor, but if you have the time, letting the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours allows the balsamic and seasonings to penetrate deeply, creating richer taste.
Can I prepare any parts of this salad in advance?
You can chop the salad greens, slice the tomatoes, and prepare the balsamic glaze ahead of time. Just keep the avocado and chicken separate until ready to serve to maintain optimal freshness.
What’s the best way to grill the chicken indoors?
A grill pan or skillet heated to medium-high is perfect for indoor cooking. Preheat it well to get those beautiful grill marks, and avoid flipping the chicken too often so it browns evenly and stays juicy.
Final Thoughts
If you want a salad that’s more than just leaves on a plate, this Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s fresh yet filling, easy to make yet impressive enough for company. Give it a try—you’ll love how the tangy sweetness of balsamic blends with tender chicken and fresh mozzarella, creating a delightful, colorful meal that feels like sunshine in every bite.
Print
Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish combining perfectly grilled balsamic-marinated chicken breasts with fresh salad greens, cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, avocado slices, and aromatic basil. Finished with a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze, this Italian-American inspired salad makes for a satisfying lunch or light dinner packed with rich flavors and balanced nutrition.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Salad
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This flavorful marinade will infuse the chicken with a tangy, herby essence.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for a deeper taste.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the hot surface and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden brown exterior. Use a meat thermometer if needed to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Slice Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain juices for tender meat. After resting, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble the Salad: On a large bowl or serving platter, arrange the mixed salad greens as the base. Add halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, avocado slices, and sprinkle fresh basil leaves evenly over the top.
- Add Chicken and Finish: Place the sliced balsamic chicken over the salad. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving to add a rich, sweet finish and enhance all the flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella balls with sliced fresh mozzarella if preferred.
- For extra crunch and texture, toast some pine nuts or add crunchy croutons to the salad.
- This salad can be enjoyed warm with freshly grilled chicken or chilled for a refreshing cold meal.
