Caprese Chicken Salad (Print Version)

A fresh mix of grilled chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze for a flavorful meal.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or mixed dried oregano and basil)
04 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
05 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Salad

06 - 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
07 - 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
08 - 9 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
09 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
10 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
11 - ½ cup fresh basil leaves

→ Balsamic Reduction

12 - ½ cup balsamic vinegar
13 - 1 tablespoon honey

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until ready for cooking.
02 - Combine olive oil, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub mixture evenly over both sides of chicken breasts.
03 - Cook chicken on the grill for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Set aside and rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
04 - In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6 to 8 minutes until syrupy, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
05 - Arrange mixed salad greens on a large platter or individual plates. Layer sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil leaves on top.
06 - Place sliced grilled chicken evenly over the salad ingredients.
07 - Drizzle balsamic reduction over the assembled salad just before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 35 minutes, yet tastes like you spent hours planning it.
  • The warm grilled chicken against cold, creamy mozzarella creates a textural contrast that feels indulgent without being heavy.
  • You get a complete, protein-rich meal that works for busy weeknights or impressing guests on a Sunday evening.
02 -
  • The balsamic reduction is transformative—don't skip it or use regular balsamic vinegar straight, because the concentration of flavor is what makes this salad sing rather than just taste nice.
  • Slice the chicken while it's still warm because it's easier, but plate it at room temperature or cooler so the temperature contrast with the cold mozzarella and greens is actually noticeable.
03 -
  • Make the balsamic reduction ahead of time and keep it in the fridge; it keeps for weeks and elevates any salad or roasted vegetable situation.
  • Pat your chicken dry before grilling—moisture is the enemy of a good crust and caramelization.
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