Description
This Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for quick dinners. It features tender cooked chicken breasts combined with al dente spiral pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic dressing, all garnished with fresh basil leaves for a refreshing Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 breasts boneless, skinless chicken
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- To taste kosher salt and pepper
Salad
- 8 ounces spiral pasta
- 2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, ciliegine, halved
- 2/3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or chiffonade
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cook the boneless, skinless chicken breasts thoroughly using your preferred method such as grilling or pan-searing until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest, then slice or cube it for the salad.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spiral pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried basil, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined and flavorful.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the cooked and cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and the cooked chicken pieces to the bowl with the dressing.
- Toss the Salad: Gently toss all ingredients until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the dressing and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the freshly chopped basil over the top before serving to add a fresh, aromatic flavor and a beautiful color contrast.
Notes
- For added protein and flavor, cook chicken with Italian seasoning or garlic powder.
- This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine) work best for authentic texture; you can substitute with diced mozzarella if unavailable.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the chicken and increase the mozzarella and tomatoes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
