This Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad is a fresh, light, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Tender chicken, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and mozzarella come together in a vibrant salad, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s simple to make, bursting with color, and packed with nutrients—everything you need for a satisfying, healthy dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This salad is the perfect balance of savory and creamy. The grilled chicken adds protein, the avocado offers healthy fats, and the Caprese ingredients bring a burst of freshness. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can add or swap ingredients based on your preferences. It’s an easy, no-fuss meal that feels fancy and special!
Ingredients
Here’s a quick preview of what you’ll need. Full details are below.
- Chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Roma tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Ripe avocado
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze or vinegar
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- While the chicken cooks, slice the tomatoes and avocado. Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the tomatoes, mozzarella, avocado, and basil.
- Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze (or vinegar) to taste.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Grill the chicken for an added smoky flavor, or pan-sear it if you don’t have a grill.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice before cooking.
- Make sure the avocado is ripe for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, steak, or even tofu for a different protein.
- Add some crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- If you prefer a tangier dressing, mix olive oil with a bit of lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey for a quick homemade vinaigrette.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This salad is great on its own or can be served alongside some crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a side of quinoa. For a more substantial meal, serve it with a side of pasta or a light soup.
Storage and Reheating Tips
While this salad is best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown, so it’s best to keep it separate until you’re ready to serve. Reheat the chicken if needed before adding to the salad.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
Yes! Store-bought balsamic glaze works just fine, or you can drizzle some balsamic vinegar if you prefer a lighter version.
What if I don’t like fresh mozzarella?
You can swap it for shredded mozzarella, burrata, or even goat cheese if that’s more to your taste.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and the salad crisp.
What’s the best way to slice the chicken?
For the best presentation, slice the chicken against the grain into thin, even strips. This will make the chicken more tender and juicy.
Conclusion
Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad is the perfect way to enjoy fresh, delicious ingredients all in one bowl. With juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and a tangy balsamic drizzle, this salad is light, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect go-to meal for any time of year. Enjoy!
Print
Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad is a fresh and vibrant meal, combining juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and the classic flavors of Caprese—tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Tossed with a tangy balsamic glaze, it’s a light yet satisfying dish perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Season and Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves.
- Top with Chicken:
- Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the salad.
- Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad for added flavor.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately as a refreshing, light meal.
Notes
- Add a sprinkle of pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch.
- For a tangier flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the salad.
- To make the salad more filling, serve with crusty bread or over quinoa.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg