Description
A fresh and flavorful Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad combining tender grilled chicken, spiral pasta, juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken and Dressing
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad
- 1 pound spiral pasta, cooked
- 12 to 16 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella (ciliegine), halved if desired
- 1 large handful fresh basil (about ⅔ cup), chopped or chiffonade
Instructions
- Prep the chicken and dressing: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish or resealable bag. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried basil, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Pour about 1/4 cup of this dressing over the chicken, reserving the rest for the salad. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to the highest setting. Remove the chicken from the marinade letting excess drip off, then grill the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from grill and let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting into chunks.
- Cook pasta and prep vegetables: While the chicken is grilling, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and cool it. Also, halve the tomatoes and chop the fresh basil as needed. These can be prepped up to a day ahead and refrigerated.
- Assemble the salad: In a large serving dish or bowl, layer the pasta, grilled chicken chunks, halved tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. You can either layer or toss all ingredients together based on preference.
- Add dressing and serve: Drizzle the reserved balsamic dressing over the assembled salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. If assembled ahead, add fresh basil just before serving to preserve its flavor and color.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for more flavor; overnight marinating enhances the taste.
- Cook pasta a day ahead and refrigerate to save time.
- Add fresh basil just before serving if making the salad in advance to keep it bright and fresh.
- Use your favorite pasta shape if spiral is unavailable, such as penne or fusilli.
- Ensure the chicken is rested properly after grilling to retain its juices before cutting.
Nutrition
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
