Let me tell you, the balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad is one of my absolute favorite dishes! It’s like a burst of fresh flavors in every bite with the juicy grilled chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil all drizzled with that rich balsamic glaze. I whip this up whenever I want something light yet satisfying, especially during those warm summer evenings. The colors are so vibrant, you can’t help but feel happy just looking at it! Plus, it’s packed with protein and fresh veggies, making it a healthy choice that tastes indulgent. Trust me, you’ll love it!
Ingredients for Balsamic Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Balsamic Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
Making this balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad is super simple, and I promise you’ll have it ready in no time! Let’s start with the chicken. First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While that’s heating up, drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil and season them generously with salt and pepper. This is where the magic begins! Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through and have those gorgeous grill marks. Once done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into juicy strips.
Prepping the Chicken
For the best results, make sure your grill is nice and hot before adding the chicken. This helps to lock in those delicious juices. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). After resting, slicing against the grain will ensure each bite is tender and flavorful.
Assembling the Salad
Now for the fun part—assembling the salad! In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves. I love to toss them gently to mix the flavors without crushing the mozzarella. Next, add the sliced chicken on top and drizzle everything with that sweet balsamic glaze. Give it another gentle toss to combine, ensuring every ingredient gets coated in that luscious glaze. Trust me, the colors and flavors will be absolutely stunning!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten up any meal.
- Healthy yet satisfying, loaded with protein and veggies.
- Beautiful presentation with colorful ingredients that’s sure to impress.
- Perfect for meal prep—make it ahead and enjoy throughout the week!
- Versatile; you can easily customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Great for picnics or gatherings, as it transports well and tastes amazing cold!
Tips for Success
To make your balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad absolutely perfect, here are a few pro tips! First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high; this is key for achieving those beautiful grill marks and juicy chicken. When seasoning, don’t be shy with the salt and pepper—it really enhances the flavor! If you want to take it up a notch, try marinating the chicken in the balsamic glaze for about 30 minutes before grilling. For serving, I recommend enjoying it fresh, but it’s also delightful the next day as leftovers. Just remember to drizzle a little extra balsamic glaze before serving for that added touch of flavor!
Variations of Balsamic Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up your balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad! For starters, try swapping out the fresh mozzarella for creamy burrata or tangy feta cheese for a different flavor profile. You can also add in some sliced avocado for extra creaminess or toss in some arugula for a peppery kick. Feeling a bit more colorful? Throw in some roasted red peppers or sliced cucumbers for crunch. And if you want to play with the dressing, a drizzle of pesto or a sprinkle of lemon juice can give your salad a whole new vibe. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad: about 300 calories, 15g of fat, 30g of protein, and 10g of carbohydrates. It’s a delightful option that balances flavor and health, so you can enjoy every bite without a second thought!
FAQ Section
Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of grilling my own?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor to your balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad. Just shred or slice it and add it to your salad.
What can I add for extra crunch?
If you’re looking for some crunch, consider adding sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even some toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. They add a delightful texture!
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to keep the balsamic glaze separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep all the components ahead of time. Just grill the chicken, chop the veggies, and store everything separately. Assemble it right before serving for the freshest taste!
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just make sure to store the dressing separately and drizzle it on just before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious.
For more information on the health benefits of balsamic vinegar, check out this Healthline article.
For delicious variations of chicken salads, visit this page for more recipes.
For tips on grilling chicken perfectly, see this Food Network guide.
Print
Balsamic Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad: 5 Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A fresh and flavorful salad with grilled chicken, mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Add the sliced chicken to the salad.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and toss to combine.
Notes
- Serve immediately for the best flavor.
- Can substitute grilled chicken with rotisserie chicken.
- Add avocado for extra creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad
