Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, making it an ideal choice for summer meals or gatherings. This salad features grilled balsamic marinated chicken, creamy pesto dressing, and a medley of colorful vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is versatile and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad can be made in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and pesto dressing creates an explosion of taste.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and vitamins from the spinach and tomatoes, it’s a wholesome meal option.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or as a side at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers keep well in the fridge, making it ideal for lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Whisk
- Gallon-size freezer bag
- Mixing bowl
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: A good grill is essential for achieving perfectly charred and juicy chicken.
- Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your dressing ingredients blend smoothly together.
- Gallon-size freezer bag: This is perfect for marinating the chicken evenly without mess.
- Mixing bowl: You’ll need this to mix your dressing ingredients conveniently.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon pesto
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
For the Salad Base
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, (halved)
- 1 cup mini fresh mozzarella balls
- Dried or fresh basil (optional)
For the Pesto Dressing
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup low fat milk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons pesto
- 2 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together all of the marinade ingredients until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Place them in a gallon-size freezer bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag tightly, pressing out all air.
- Massage the marinade into the chicken.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for best results.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
* Spray or brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
* Place marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for approximately 4–6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness.
* Remove from grill when fully cooked and let rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In another small bowl, combine all of the dressing ingredients. Whisk until smooth and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
On a serving platter or in a large bowl:
* Lay down a bed of baby spinach.
* Arrange sliced grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and mini mozzarella balls on top.
* Sprinkle with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried basil if desired.
* Drizzle with pesto dressing or serve it on the side.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your refreshing Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad!
How to Serve Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad
Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad is not only a visual delight but also a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
On a Platter
- Serve the salad on a large platter for a family-style meal. This encourages sharing and makes it easy for guests to help themselves.
In Individual Bowls
- For a more personalized touch, serve individual portions in bowls. This is great for gatherings or meal prep.
With Extra Dressing
- Offer additional dressing on the side for those who enjoy extra flavor. A small bowl of creamy pesto dressing complements the dish perfectly.
As a Wrap
- Transform the salad into a wrap by using large lettuce leaves. Fill them with spinach, chicken, tomatoes, and mozzarella, then roll them up for an easy-to-eat option.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair the salad with slices of crusty baguette or garlic bread. This adds texture and makes for a satisfying meal.
How to Perfect Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad
To elevate your Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad, keep these helpful tips in mind.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor. The longer you marinate, the tastier your chicken will be.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes are key for vibrant flavors. Always choose quality produce for the best results.
- Grill at the Right Temperature: Preheat your grill properly. Medium-high heat ensures an even cook without drying out the chicken.
- Customize the Dressing: Feel free to adjust ingredients in your dressing. Adding lemon juice or extra herbs can give it a unique twist.
- Slice Against the Grain: When slicing chicken, cut against the grain for tender pieces that are easier to chew.
- Garnish Creatively: Add fresh basil or microgreens as a garnish for an appealing presentation and added flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad
A refreshing salad like Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some ideas that complement its flavors beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add color and taste while keeping things light.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and feta provides a protein boost and textures that contrast nicely.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers delicious crunchiness that balances out the salad’s freshness.
- Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness, making it an ideal light side dish.
- Pasta Primavera: Lightly dressed pasta with seasonal veggies can be a hearty accompaniment without overpowering the salad.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide comfort while still being simple enough not to overshadow the main dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cured meats, and cheeses creates an enticing starter that sets up a delightful Italian-themed meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can result in bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least an hour for better taste.
Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients will diminish the salad’s freshness. Opt for fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
Not Measuring Dressing Ingredients: Eyeballing the dressing can lead to unbalanced flavors. Use precise measurements for a perfectly blended dressing.
Neglecting Texture Variety: A salad without varied textures can be boring. Include crunchy vegetables or nuts for added dimension.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Freezing Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture and flavor.
- If needed, freeze cooked chicken separately and use within 2 months.
Reheating Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat chicken on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through, being careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other proteins in Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad?
Yes, you can substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for a different taste while keeping it delicious and healthy.
What should I do if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
If balsamic vinegar is unavailable, try red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of honey for a similar sweet-tangy flavor.
How can I customize my Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers, or incorporate grains like quinoa for added nutrition.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep; just store the components separately and combine them when ready to eat.
What goes well with Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad?
Pair this salad with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Final Thoughts
Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic or enjoying it as a weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to please everyone at the table! Try making it today and experiment with your favorite add-ins!
Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad
Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the classic flavors of Italy in a healthy, satisfying meal. Featuring succulent grilled chicken marinated in balsamic vinegar and pesto, this salad is topped with creamy mozzarella balls, ripe cherry tomatoes, and a bed of fresh spinach. Drizzled with a rich pesto dressing, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Whether served as a main course or as a delightful side dish, this salad is sure to impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon pesto
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mini fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup low fat milk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons pesto
- 2 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, pesto, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper for the marinade.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; place in a gallon-size freezer bag with the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat; cook marinated chicken for 4–6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.
- In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, milk, pesto, parmesan cheese, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for the dressing; whisk until smooth.
- On a serving platter or large bowl, layer spinach followed by sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella. Drizzle with pesto dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 105mg