Name: Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 6 cups mixed salad greens; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls, halved; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup balsamic glaze; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon honey

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Get ready to fall in love with the vibrant flavors and stunning presentation of Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad! This dish takes everything you adore about a classic Caprese—juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil—and adds tender grilled chicken for a protein-packed twist. Finished with a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to a summer-inspired dinner, this salad always feels like a celebration.

Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this salad plays an important role, coming together to create a colorful, fresh, and delicious plate. With a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh picks, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your own table.

Chicken Breasts: The star protein, juicy and grilled to perfection, makes this salad hearty and satisfying.
Olive Oil: Used for grilling and dressing, it adds richness and helps the seasonings stick to the chicken.
Italian Seasoning: Brings aromatic, herby notes that complement both the chicken and the salad.
Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle savory kick without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life.
Black Pepper: A touch of heat and depth that balances the sweetness of tomatoes and balsamic glaze.
Mixed Salad Greens: The crisp, refreshing base that soaks up all the flavors and provides lovely color.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and bursting with summery flavor—halve them for the perfect bite.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Creamy and mild, they pair perfectly with tomatoes and basil for that iconic Caprese experience.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Fragrant and vibrant, basil adds a signature Italian touch to every forkful.
Balsamic Glaze: This thick, syrupy reduction gives the salad its irresistible tangy-sweet finish.
Balsamic Vinegar: Whisked into the dressing for extra depth and a bright, zesty kick.
Honey: Balances the acidity of the vinegar, lending a touch of natural sweetness to the dressing.

How to Make Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Begin by preheating your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil. Generously sprinkle them with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This quick seasoning step infuses the chicken with flavor and helps create a golden, aromatic crust once it hits the grill.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken on the hot grill. Grill for 6 to 7 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. If you’re using a grill pan indoors, you’ll get those beautiful grill marks and a wonderful smoky aroma. Once done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to lock in the juices before slicing it thinly.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl or on a serving platter, arrange the mixed salad greens as your base. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls over the greens, then tuck in fresh basil leaves for that classic Caprese flavor. Lay the sliced grilled chicken on top, letting the juices mingle with the veggies and cheese below.

Step 4: Make the Balsamic Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, a tablespoon of olive oil, and honey. This quick homemade dressing is bright, balanced, and just sweet enough to tie everything together. Don’t skip this step—it’s what gives your Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad its signature zing!

Step 5: Dress and Finish

Drizzle the freshly whisked dressing evenly over the salad, then finish with a generous swirl of thick balsamic glaze. The glaze adds a glossy finish and an extra layer of flavor that brings the whole dish to life. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of freshness in every bite!

How to Serve Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a crack of fresh black pepper, or a handful of extra torn basil leaves will make your Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad pop. For a touch of luxury, add shaved Parmesan or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Side Dishes

This salad is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a warm slice of crusty bread or a side of garlicky roasted vegetables turns it into a true feast. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes for a refreshing accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad family-style on a large platter for a show-stopping centerpiece, or plate individual portions for an elegant dinner party. For picnics or meal prep, layer the ingredients in mason jars—just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the chicken, greens, and dressing apart to prevent sogginess. The chicken and mozzarella will stay fresh for up to 3 days, while the greens are best enjoyed within a day.

Freezing

While the chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months, the salad greens, mozzarella, and tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh and don’t freeze well. If you want to freeze cooked chicken, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly before stashing in the freezer.

Reheating

To reheat leftover chicken, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until just heated through. Avoid overheating to keep it juicy. Once warmed, slice and add to fresh greens and toppings for a quick Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad anytime.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and still delivers delicious results. Just shred or slice and add it right to your salad—no need to heat if you prefer it cold.

What can I substitute for mozzarella balls?

If you can’t find mozzarella balls, fresh mozzarella sliced into bite-sized pieces works wonderfully. Burrata or feta can also add a unique twist to your Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your balsamic glaze and seasonings are certified gluten-free. Always double-check labels if you have an allergy.

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?

Definitely! Grill the chicken up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, slice and add to the assembled salad for a speedy meal.

How can I make this salad vegetarian?

Simply leave out the chicken or replace it with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version that still packs plenty of protein and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s just as impressive as it is effortless, give this Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad a try! It’s the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again, whether you’re craving something light yet filling or want to wow guests at your next gathering. Enjoy every fresh, flavorful bite!

Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe

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4.6 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad combines juicy grilled chicken with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze and honey dressing. It’s a refreshing and satisfying Italian-inspired salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Salad

6 cups mixed salad greens
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

Dressing and Glaze

1/4 cup balsamic glaze
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon honey

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Instructions

Prepare the Grill and Season Chicken: Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with the olive oil and then season evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
Slice the Chicken: After resting, thinly slice the grilled chicken breasts to prepare for salad assembly.
Assemble the Salad: On a large bowl or serving platter, arrange the mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves evenly.
Add Chicken to Salad: Top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken breasts evenly for balanced flavor and protein.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey until well combined to create a sweet and tangy dressing.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing and balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving to enhance flavor and presentation. Toss gently if desired.

Notes

For a quicker meal, substitute store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of grilling chicken breasts.
To boost flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes in balsamic vinegar and olive oil before grilling.
Pair this salad with crusty bread to make a complete and more filling meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course, Salad
Method: Grilling, Tossing
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, Mediterranean