Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad

Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and grilled flavors that brightens up any meal. This versatile salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of balsamic marinated chicken and creamy pesto dressing elevates this dish, making it a standout option. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a nutritious meal at home, this salad will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The marinated chicken and creamy pesto dressing create a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Versatile Serving: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side salad at barbecues and potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Gallon size freezer bag
• Serving platter or bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect charred flavor to the chicken, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for mixing ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine the dressing ingredients smoothly for an even flavor.

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 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, seal the bag while 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 oil on the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Once cooked through, remove from heat and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In another small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients. Whisk until smooth and well mixed. Taste for seasoning adjustments.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

On a serving platter or in a large bowl, place baby spinach as your base. Arrange halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and sliced grilled chicken on top. Sprinkle with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried basil if desired. Drizzle with dressing before serving or serve it on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad!

How to Serve Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad

Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad is not just a meal; it’s a vibrant dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a casual dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use baby spinach, arugula, or mixed greens for a fresh base.
• This adds color and crunch, making the salad visually appealing.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty baguette or ciabatta.
• The bread complements the salad’s flavors and is perfect for mopping up the creamy dressing.

As a Wrap

• Roll the salad ingredients in a whole-wheat tortilla.
• This creates a delicious and portable option for lunch or picnics.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top.
• This adds an extra layer of texture and flavor to the dish.

In Individual Bowls

• Present the salad in individual serving bowls for an elegant touch.
• This makes it easy for guests to serve themselves without any mess.

How to Perfect Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad

Creating the perfect Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your salad shines.

• Choose quality ingredients: Fresh, ripe tomatoes and good mozzarella make all the difference in flavor.
• Marinate longer: For even more flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight instead of just an hour.
• Grill at the right temperature: Medium-high heat ensures juicy chicken without drying it out.
• Customize your dressing: Feel free to adjust the pesto and yogurt ratios for a creamier or tangier taste.
• Serve fresh: Enjoy this salad immediately after preparation for the best texture and taste.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding avocado slices, olives, or grilled vegetables for variation.

Best Side Dishes for Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad enhances your meal. Consider these delightful options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and flavorful, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf adds protein and complements the freshness of the salad nicely.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and additional nutrients to your plate.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances savory flavors with natural sweetness.
5. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with basil and cherry tomatoes echoes the salad’s Mediterranean flair.
6. Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta makes for a great appetizer alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad, it’s easy to overlook some important details that can affect the flavor and presentation. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip this step; even a short marination can enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Not balancing flavors: Ensure your dressing complements the salad. If it’s too tangy or bland, adjust the seasoning before serving.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients make all the difference. Always check that your mozzarella and vegetables are fresh for optimal taste.
• Ignoring portion sizes: A well-portioned salad is more enjoyable. Measure ingredients to maintain a balanced ratio of chicken, veggies, and dressing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
• Keep chicken separate from greens to prevent wilting.

Freezing Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad

• It’s best not to freeze assembled salads as they may lose texture.
• If you must freeze, store grilled chicken separately in a freezer-safe bag.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm the chicken on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (about 30 seconds) until warm, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Sauté on low heat in a skillet until warmed, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad?

To make this dish, marinate and grill chicken breasts, then serve them sliced over fresh spinach with tomatoes and mozzarella. Drizzle with creamy pesto dressing for added flavor.

Can I customize my Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers, or use different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese to suit your taste preferences.

How can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken in advance and store it separately from the salad components. Assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What should I serve with Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad?

This salad pairs well with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal. It also makes an excellent side dish at summer barbecues.

Final Thoughts

Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad combines vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients into one delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on what you have on hand, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. We encourage you to try this recipe and get creative with your favorite ingredients!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together the flavors of summer in every bite. This salad features juicy grilled chicken marinated in balsamic vinegar and pesto, served over a bed of fresh baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella balls. Topped with a luscious Greek yogurt dressing infused with pesto and parmesan, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrition. It’s perfect for family dinners, picnics, or entertaining guests. With its stunning presentation and delicious taste, Caprese Grilled Chicken Salad is sure to impress everyone at your table!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 5 ounces baby spinach
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cup mini fresh mozzarella balls
• 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons pesto
• Olive oil
• Honey
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, pesto, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place in a freezer bag with marinade; seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F). Let rest before slicing.
4. Make the Dressing: Whisk together Greek yogurt, low-fat milk, pesto, parmesan cheese, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Assemble the Salad: On a serving platter, layer spinach, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and sliced chicken. Drizzle with dressing before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (approx. 300g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 90mg