Description
This vibrant Caprese Chicken Salad features tender, seasoned chicken breasts paired with fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tossed in a zesty balsamic dressing. It’s a refreshing and satisfying dish, perfect for any meal or gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, diced or mozzarella balls
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or whole
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them.
- Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Wash the cherry tomatoes under cold water, slice them in half, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- If using mozzarella balls, add them whole; if using a block, dice it into bite-sized pieces and add to the bowl.
- Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and add them to the mixing bowl with the tomatoes and mozzarella.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), and Dijon mustard.
- Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the sliced chicken on top of the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in the mixing bowl.
- Drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Transfer the salad to a large serving platter or individual bowls.
- Garnish with whole basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic reduction if desired.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, keeping the dressing separate until ready to eat to prevent sogginess.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, you can omit the chicken and add more vegetables or chickpeas.
- Feel free to customize the salad with additional ingredients like avocado or nuts for added texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes