Chicken Caprese Salad

Name: Chicken Caprese Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 6 cups fresh arugula; 2 cups mozzarella pearls; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, (halved); ¼ cup balsamic glaze; 6 basil leaves, (sliced)

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This Chicken Caprese Salad is fresh, vibrant, and ready in minutes, perfect for those nights when you want something wholesome but satisfying. Juicy skillet-seared chicken, creamy mozzarella pearls, sweet cherry tomatoes, and peppery arugula come together with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a classic Italian flavor that never disappoints.

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A Quick Look at the Recipe

✅ Recipe Name: Chicken Caprese Salad
🕒 Ready In: ~25 minutes
👪 Serves: 4
🍽 Calories: ~500 per serving (estimated)
🥣 Main Ingredients: Chicken breasts, arugula, mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, balsamic glaze, basil
📖 Dietary Info: Gluten-free, high-protein, low-carb
👌 Difficulty: Very easy - sear chicken, assemble, drizzle

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Unlike marinaded or grilled versions that require extra prep, this one keeps things simple: season, sear, slice, and assemble. The warm chicken over crisp greens gives the salad a comforting feel, while the basil and tomatoes add brightness. It's the ideal balance of protein, fresh produce, and natural sweetness, making it a great dinner, lunch, or meal-prep option.

If you enjoy fresh, real-ingredient meals like this, try our Steak with Mushroom Sauce, quick Honey Garlic Shrimp, or flavorful Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls next. Each of them delivers the same easy, no-fuss style that makes this Chicken Caprese Salad a staple in any weeknight rotation.

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A Quick Look at the Recipe
Why You'll Love this Chicken Caprese Salad:
Key Ingredients:
Easy Substitutions & Variations:
How to Make Chicken Caprese Salad:
Recipe Notes & Tips:
How to Store:
Caprese Chicken Salad FAQs:
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Chicken Caprese Salad

Why You'll Love this Chicken Caprese Salad:

Balanced Flavors: The tangy balsamic glaze, fresh basil, and vibrant cherry tomatoes complement the savory, seasoned chicken perfectly.
Fresh and Healthy: With a generous serving of fresh arugula, mozzarella pearls, and lean chicken breasts, you're getting a nutritious meal that's both light and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: The recipe is straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile: Whether served as a hearty lunch or a light dinner, this salad works well on its own or as a side dish. You can even add extra toppings or swap ingredients to tailor it to your taste.

Key Ingredients:

Chicken Caprese Salad with chicken breasts, basil, tomatoes, arugula, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze.

chicken breasts. Lean protein that absorbs flavors well and cooks to a tender finish. You can substitute chicken thighs for another option.
fresh arugula. Crisp greens that lend a refreshing, peppery note to the salad. Baby spinach or mixed greens make a good substitute.
mozzarella pearls. Soft, mild cheese that introduces a creamy texture. You can replace them with small mozzarella balls or torn pieces of fresh mozzarella.
cherry tomatoes. Juicy tomatoes that contribute a natural sweetness. Grape tomatoes or diced vine tomatoes work well in place.
balsamic glaze. A drizzle that adds tangy-sweet complexity. A reduction of balsamic vinegar or a mix of balsamic vinegar and honey can serve as an alternative.

Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this page for exact quantities.

Easy Substitutions & Variations:

Swap the greens: Use spinach, spring mix, baby kale, or a blend of greens if you prefer a milder base than arugula.
Change the cheese: Mozzarella pearls are classic, but sliced fresh mozzarella, burrata, or even cubed provolone work well.
Try different tomatoes: Substitute grape tomatoes, heirloom mini tomatoes, or sliced Roma tomatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Use a different dressing: Replace balsamic glaze with balsamic vinaigrette, pesto vinaigrette, lemon-garlic dressing, or olive-oil + red-wine vinegar.

How to Make Chicken Caprese Salad:

Four seasoned, cooked chicken breasts for a fresh Chicken Caprese Salad in a white skillet.

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked.

Oval plate with Chicken Caprese Salad, arugula, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.

Step 2: Arrange the fresh arugula on a large serving platter. Scatter mozzarella pearls and halved cherry tomatoes over the salad.

Three grilled chicken breasts on a Chicken Caprese Salad of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.

Step 3: Add the chicken on top on the salad.

Chicken Caprese Salad with grilled chicken, greens, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze.

Step 4: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken. Sprinkle sliced basil leaves on top. Serve immediately.

Recipe Notes & Tips:

Chicken Cooking Options: You can grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken based on your preference. If baking, cook at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
Cheese Alternatives: If you don't have mozzarella pearls, you can use fresh mozzarella slices or burrata.
Greens Substitution: If arugula is too peppery for your taste, you can swap it with baby spinach or mixed greens.
Meal Prep Tip: Cook the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for easy meal prep. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
Balsamic Glaze Substitute: If you don't have balsamic glaze, reduce balsamic vinegar by simmering it until thickened.
Resting the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices.
Serving Suggestions: We love serving this salad with Gluten-Free Focaccia or French Onion Soup for a complete meal.

How to Store:

Refrigerator: Cool the cooked chicken completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep salad greens and toppings in separate containers to maintain freshness.
Reheating: Reheat chicken in a microwave or oven until warmed through, being careful not to overcook.
Meal Prep: Prepare the chicken and store it in the fridge for quick assembly during the week. Portion out greens and toppings separately, and add dressing right before serving.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Fresh salad greens, mozzarella, and tomatoes are best kept fresh and should not be frozen.

Caprese Chicken Salad FAQs:

Can I use grilled chicken for chicken caprese salad?

Yes. Grilled chicken works perfectly in chicken caprese salad and adds a smoky flavor. You can use freshly grilled chicken or leftover grilled chicken-just slice it and layer it over the arugula before adding the mozzarella, tomatoes, and balsamic glaze.

Can I use a different type of mozzarella in caprese salad?

Absolutely. Mozzarella pearls are convenient, but sliced fresh mozzarella, torn burrata, or thicker mozzarella medallions all work well. Choose whole-milk varieties for the creamiest texture.

What dressing is best for chicken caprese salad?

The best dressing for chicken caprese salad is a simple balsamic glaze or balsamic vinaigrette. The sweetness pairs well with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella. You can also use pesto vinaigrette, olive oil with lemon juice, or a light Italian dressing.