Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite dishes: the balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad. It’s like a burst of summer on your plate! The combination of juicy grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil is simply irresistible. I remember the first time I made it for a picnic; the colors were so vibrant, and the smell of the balsamic glaze was heavenly. As soon as I took my first bite, I was hooked! This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether I’m having a casual dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe always steals the show. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Balsamic Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
- First things first, let’s get that grill preheated to medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for that perfect sear on the chicken!
- While the grill is heating up, grab your chicken breasts and season them generously with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This is where the flavor begins, so don’t be shy!
- Once the grill is ready, place the chicken on it and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when it’s no longer pink in the middle and the juices run clear. Yum!
- After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This is super important—resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
- While the chicken is resting, it’s time to whip up the salad! In a large bowl, combine those juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cubes, and fresh basil leaves. The colors are just stunning!
- Finally, slice the grilled chicken and lay it on top of the salad mixture. Drizzle the whole thing with balsamic glaze for that sweet and tangy finish. Just like that, you’ve got a gorgeous balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad ready to enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: This salad comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- Fresh and flavorful: The vibrant combination of grilled chicken, mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bursts with flavor, and each bite feels like a taste of summer!
- Healthy option: Packed with protein from the chicken and wholesome ingredients, this salad is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice.
- Gluten-free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, you can enjoy this dish without worrying about gluten.
- Perfect for summer meals: Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad is light, refreshing, and just what you need on a sunny day.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad turns out absolutely stellar! Here are my top tips for achieving the best results:
- Choose quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a world of difference in flavor. Look for vibrant cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. If you can find heirloom tomatoes, even better!
- Don’t skip the resting: After grilling, let your chicken rest for at least 5 minutes. This crucial step ensures a juicy, tender bite every time. Trust me, it’s worth it!
- Grill marks matter: For those beautiful grill marks, make sure not to move the chicken around too much while it’s cooking. Just let it do its thing for those perfect sear lines!
- Presentation counts: When serving, layer the salad with the sliced chicken on top. Drizzle the balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern for a stunning visual appeal. It’s all about those Instagram-worthy vibes!
- Season to taste: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to really bring all those flavors to life. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this delightful salad. Enjoy every bite!
Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up or just want to try something new with your balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad, I’ve got some fun variations for you! Each twist can bring a whole new flavor profile to this already delicious dish:
- Add different vegetables: Toss in some arugula or spinach for extra greens, or throw in some sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch. Roasted red peppers can also add a sweet smokiness that’s just divine!
- Experiment with cheeses: Swap out the fresh mozzarella for burrata for an extra creamy texture, or try crumbled feta for a tangy kick. Goat cheese can also be a lovely addition, offering a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the balsamic glaze.
- Spice it up: Add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. It’ll give your salad an exciting twist that kicks the flavor up a notch!
- Include fruits: Fresh fruits like strawberries or peaches can add a lovely sweetness that complements the balsamic glaze beautifully. Just slice them up and mix them in with the salad for a summery vibe!
- Use different proteins: If you’re not feeling chicken, try grilled shrimp or even a hearty portobello mushroom for a vegetarian option. Both will bring their own unique flavors to the salad while keeping it satisfying.
Feel free to get creative and make this salad your own! With these variations, it’s sure to be a hit every time you serve it. Enjoy exploring the possibilities!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this gorgeous balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad, and now you have some leftovers? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat them properly!
First things first, if you have any salad left over, it’s best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep the ingredients fresh and tasty for up to 2 days. Just a heads up, though—if you’ve already drizzled the balsamic glaze on top, it might make the salad a bit soggier over time. To avoid this, I recommend storing the glaze separately if you think you’ll have leftovers.
When it comes to reheating, you generally want to avoid heating the salad itself since it’s best served cold. However, if you wish to enjoy the chicken warm again, you can slice it and pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Just be careful not to overheat, as you want to keep it juicy and flavorful!
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also toss the leftover chicken back on the grill for a minute or two, giving it a nice char and refreshing flavor. Just remember to keep the salad ingredients separate until you’re ready to serve them again. This way, you’ll maintain that delightful freshness with each bite!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying the balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s not just delicious but also pretty healthy! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 450mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and portions you use. But overall, you can feel good about indulging in this salad! It’s a great source of protein and packed with fresh flavors, making it a wonderful choice for a balanced meal.
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
I recommend using fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture. If you only have frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before grilling. This ensures it cooks evenly and remains juicy!
What can I substitute for balsamic glaze?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey or maple syrup to create a sweet and tangy drizzle. Just simmer the vinegar until it thickens slightly!
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Absolutely! The balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad is perfect for meal prep. Just keep the chicken and salad components separate until you’re ready to eat, which will keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegetarian by replacing the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas. Both options will add protein and keep the salad satisfying!
How do I store leftover balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you’ve already added the balsamic glaze, it may become a bit soggy, so it’s best to keep it separate until serving.
Can I add pasta to this salad?
Absolutely! Adding cooked pasta, like penne or rotini, can turn this salad into a hearty meal. Just mix in the pasta along with the other ingredients for a delightful twist!
What type of mozzarella should I use?
I prefer fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture and flavor, but you can also use shredded mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to maintain the balance of flavors!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Chicken Pasta or Garlic Butter Pasta.
Print
Balsamic Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad: 5 Irresistible Flavors
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A fresh and flavorful salad featuring grilled chicken, mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Top salad with grilled chicken slices and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.
- Marinate chicken for extra flavor if desired.
- Serve immediately for best taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: balsamic grilled chicken caprese salad
