Italian Chicken Caprese Salad

This juicy chicken caprese salad combines the classic flavors of Italian caprese with perfectly grilled chicken breast for a satisfying meal that's both light and filling. The balsamic honey dressing pulls everything together, creating that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.

I first created this recipe during a hot summer when I wanted something substantial yet refreshing. Now it's become our go to meal whenever we entertain guests who are watching their calories but still want something that feels indulgent.

Ingredients

• Balsamic vinegar: creates that signature sweet tanginess essential to caprese flavor
• Olive oil: provides the Mediterranean base for our dressing use extra virgin for best flavor
• Honey: balances the acidity of the vinegar look for local raw honey if possible
• Garlic: adds aromatic depth one fresh clove makes all the difference
• Dried Italian seasonings: blend of oregano, basil, and thyme creates authentic flavor
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the protein foundation select organic if budget allows
• Romaine lettuce: provides the perfect crisp base with mild flavor
• Avocado: contributes creamy texture and healthy fats choose one slightly firm to the touch
• Cherry tomatoes: burst with sweet juiciness in every bite select bright colored ones
• Mini mozzarella cheese balls: traditional caprese component look for fresh packed in water
• Fresh basil leaves: brings the distinctive aromatic quality that defines caprese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dual Purpose Marinade:

Combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, and dried herbs in a small jar with tight fitting lid. Shake vigorously until completely emulsified. The honey will help the mixture stay combined and adds necessary sweetness to balance the vinegar. Reserve two thirds of this mixture for dressing and use the remaining third for marinating chicken.

Prepare the Chicken:

Cut chicken breasts lengthwise to create thinner pieces that cook more quickly and evenly. Pour the reserved marinade portion over chicken ensuring every piece is well coated. Let sit while you prepare other ingredients or up to 30 minutes if time allows for deeper flavor penetration.

Grill to Perfection:

Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium high heat. Place marinated chicken pieces on hot surface and cook approximately 5 to 7 minutes per side. Look for nice grill marks and ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should be juicy with slight char marks for optimal flavor.

Assemble the Salad:

Chop romaine into bite sized pieces and place in large bowl. Add sliced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. Slice the grilled chicken into strips once it has rested for 5 minutes. Layer chicken over the salad ingredients. Sprinkle thinly sliced fresh basil throughout.

Dress and Serve:

Drizzle the reserved balsamic dressing over the entire salad. Toss gently to ensure everything is lightly coated without crushing delicate ingredients. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving immediately.

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The mini mozzarella balls are truly what make this salad special for me. I discovered them years ago at an Italian deli and have been incorporating them into my salads ever since. They provide little pockets of creamy texture that complement the grilled chicken perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

This salad works wonderfully for meal prep with a simple strategy. Prepare and grill the chicken, then refrigerate. Mix the dressing but keep it separate. Chop all vegetables except avocado and store in container with a paper towel to absorb moisture. When ready to eat, slice avocado fresh, combine all components, and dress just before serving for maximum freshness.

Flavor Variations

The beauty of this caprese chicken salad lies in its adaptability. For a Mediterranean twist, add kalamata olives and feta cheese instead of mozzarella. Create a southwest version by incorporating black beans, corn, and substituting lime juice for some of the balsamic vinegar. For a more substantial meal, add cooked quinoa or farro to introduce whole grains and additional texture.

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Serving Suggestions

While this salad stands perfectly on its own, it pairs beautifully with crusty whole grain bread for soaking up extra dressing. For entertaining, serve family style on a large platter with chicken arranged decoratively on top for visual impact. Consider offering additional dressing on the side for guests who prefer more intensity of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

The combination of lean protein from chicken breast and healthy fats from avocado and olive oil creates a satisfying meal that keeps hunger at bay for hours. Romaine lettuce provides vitamin A while tomatoes contribute lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. The moderate carbohydrate content makes this appropriate for most dietary needs, and at under 300 calories per serving, it fits well into weight management plans without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prepare components separately up to 24 hours ahead. Grill and slice the chicken, store in an airtight container. Keep the dressing separate and combine all ingredients just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.

→ What can I use instead of chicken?

Grilled shrimp works excellently as mentioned in the notes. Other great alternatives include grilled salmon, seared tuna, marinated tofu, or even grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

→ Is this salad keto-friendly?

With some modifications, this salad can be keto-friendly. Skip the honey in the dressing or substitute with a keto-approved sweetener. The avocado, chicken, cheese, and most vegetables are already low-carb and keto-compatible.

→ How do I know when my chicken is properly cooked?

Chicken is properly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, cut into the thickest part - the meat should be completely white with no pink areas and juices should run clear.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

While mini mozzarella balls are traditional for caprese, you can substitute with torn fresh mozzarella, burrata for extra creaminess, or even feta for a tangier flavor profile. Each will change the character of the dish but still work wonderfully.

→ What sides pair well with this salad?

This salad works as a complete meal, but pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread, garlic knots, or a light soup like minestrone. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside grilled vegetables or a small portion of pasta.