Description
A vibrant and flavorful Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad combining tender grilled chicken, al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a delicious side dish, this recipe is easy to prepare and ideal for warm-weather meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- Salt (for pasta water, as needed)
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Heat a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat until boiling. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook the Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. Place chicken in skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and chicken is cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest on a cutting board for a few minutes.
- Slice the Chicken: After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces suitable for tossing in the salad.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the slightly cooled pasta, sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and honey until well combined and the dressing is slightly thickened.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture and gently toss to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the salad and add additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve at room temperature or chilled according to preference.
Notes
- Use cream-filled mozzarella balls (bocconcini) for extra creaminess.
- For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken can replace freshly cooked chicken breasts.
- Allowing the pasta to cool slightly prevents the cheese from melting in the salad.
- Chilling the salad before serving enhances flavors but is optional.
- Leftover salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days.
