Easy Caprese Chicken Salad

Light, fresh, and packed with flavor, this Easy Caprese Chicken Salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a healthy meal prep option. Juicy, golden-brown chicken breast is paired with crisp romaine, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy bocconcini, and fresh basil, all tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette. Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, this version elevates it with protein-packed chicken, making it a balanced and satisfying meal.

Whether you’re seeking a quick weekday lunch, a colorful dinner for family, or a meal to impress guests, this salad combines simplicity with elegance. The homemade vinaigrette doubles as a marinade and dressing, infusing the chicken with flavor and tying the salad together with a vibrant, tangy finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes
• Healthy and packed with lean protein
• Fresh, bright, and flavorful
• Simple, homemade vinaigrette doubles as marinade and dressing
• Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners
• Easy to customize with favorite veggies or cheeses

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4.

Marinade / Dressing

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons virgin olive oil
• 3 teaspoons light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt

Salad

• 4 chicken breast fillets, skinless and boneless
• 5 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
• 1/2 cup bocconcini (small mozzarella balls)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

All ingredient measurements are precise to maintain proper flavor balance and texture.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Shallow dish for marinating chicken
• Whisk
• Grill pan or skillet
• Meat thermometer
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Salad bowl and serving utensils

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 teaspoons light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt

Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the mixture per chicken breast for later as salad dressing.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and coat each with 4 tablespoons of the prepared marinade, ensuring even coverage.

Set aside the remaining marinade to use as salad dressing.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a large grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown and crispy, about 6–7 minutes per side depending on thickness.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) before removing the chicken from the heat.

Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting locks in the juices for maximum tenderness.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine:

• 5 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup bocconcini
• Sliced cooked chicken

Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil over the top.

Drizzle with the reserved marinade/dressing, then season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine.

Tips & Variations

Make It Dairy-Free

Replace bocconcini with diced avocado or omit cheese entirely.

Add Extra Veggies

Include cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes for extra crunch and color.

Quick Weeknight Option

Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save cooking time.

Flavor Boost

Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the salad before serving for extra tang and sweetness.

Meal Prep Friendly

Store cooked chicken and chopped veggies separately in airtight containers; assemble just before serving.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

The Easy Caprese Chicken Salad balances:

• Savory: Juicy, grilled chicken
• Sweet: Cherry tomatoes and light brown sugar in the vinaigrette
• Creamy: Bocconcini adds richness and contrasts the crisp lettuce
• Herbaceous: Fresh basil infuses a fragrant, slightly peppery flavor
• Tangy: Red wine vinegar dressing ties everything together

Pair with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for a complete light meal.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (1 cup):

• Calories: 255 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0.01g
• Cholesterol: 77mg
• Sodium: 1023mg
• Potassium: 667mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Vitamin A: 5440 IU
• Vitamin C: 13mg
• Calcium: 84mg
• Iron: 1mg

Dietary notes: Gluten-free, high-protein, and suitable for a light, low-carb meal.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare the vinaigrette in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Marinate chicken for 30 minutes to an hour ahead of cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Cooked chicken can be sliced and stored separately in the fridge for 2–3 days.
• Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain crisp lettuce and fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Yes, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may require a few extra minutes.

How can I make this salad vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and add grilled tofu, tempeh, or extra bocconcini.

Can I store the assembled salad?

It’s best served fresh. Store components separately and assemble just before eating to keep the lettuce crisp.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Caprese Chicken Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing. Garnish with extra basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a restaurant-style presentation. Pair with whole-grain bread or a light soup for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

1. Avocado Caprese Salad: Add sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
2. Grilled Veggie Version: Include grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a more hearty salad.
3. Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and cucumber slices.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño to the dressing for heat.

Ingredient Spotlight

Bocconcini

These small mozzarella balls are soft, creamy, and mild in flavor. They add a luscious texture and subtle richness to salads. Store in water or brine in the fridge and use within a week of opening.

Fresh Basil

Aromatic and slightly sweet, fresh basil elevates this salad with authentic Italian flavor. Choose bright green leaves without bruising and chop just before serving to preserve aroma and color.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Pat chicken dry before cooking to get a golden crust.
• Always rest chicken after cooking to retain juices.
• Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking.
• Whisk dressing thoroughly to emulsify vinegar and oil for a smooth coating.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator

Store cooked chicken and salad components separately for up to 2–3 days. Dress the salad only when ready to serve.

Freezer

Not recommended to freeze the salad as lettuce and fresh ingredients lose texture. Chicken can be frozen separately for up to 2 months.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	255 kcal
Protein	27g
Carbohydrates	7g
Fat	13g
Fiber	2g

Gluten-free and high-protein.

Expanded Conclusion

The Easy Caprese Chicken Salad is a vibrant, satisfying, and healthy meal that balances crisp greens, juicy chicken, creamy bocconcini, and sweet, tangy dressing. It’s quick, easy, and versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.

With fresh ingredients, homemade dressing, and simple preparation, this salad delivers restaurant-quality flavor right in your kitchen. Serve, savor, and share—it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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