Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Tossed in basil pesto and filled with juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and grilled chicken, Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad is full of fresh, herby flavor and ready in about 25 minutes.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 369kcal
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta preferably a shorter kind
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- pinch salt and pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls marinated or plain
- 3 cup mixed greens
- 1 batch pesto
Optional Garnishes
- fresh basil leaves
- parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Place a large stockpot filled 2/3 of the way with water over high heat. When the water comes to a boil, add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package's directions.
- Meanwhile, set a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Place the chicken in a dish or plastic bag and coat the chicken with the vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Transfer to the hot pan and cook on both sides until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius). Transfer to a cutting board and allow to rest.
- Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water, then drain again and set aside.
- Cut the warm chicken into slices and toss with the pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and mixed greens. Toss with the pesto and serve immediately or allow to chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Garnish with julienned basil and grated Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
-Skip the chicken and enjoy the same fresh flavor from the pesto, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
To STORE Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for 2–4 days. For best texture, eat within 1–2 days. If pesto is already mixed in, toss before serving to refresh the dressing.
Freezing isn’t recommended, as the mozzarella and tomatoes don’t hold up well. For longer storage, keep the greens and dressing separate and combine only what you plan to serve. If serving warm, microwave briefly and add fresh greens after heating.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 369kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 54mg | Sodium: 115mg | Potassium: 514mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 380IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 89mg | Iron: 2mg
