I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe for Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad with you! Every time I make this dish, it takes me back to those sunny summer afternoons when my friends and I would gather for a picnic in the park. This salad was always the star of the show, sitting proudly on the blanket next to homemade lemonade and a basket filled with warm bread. It’s simple yet bursting with flavor, and it’s become my go-to recipe for easy gatherings. The combination of grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and a hint of basil is like a little taste of Italy right in your own kitchen!
What makes this recipe even better is how versatile it is. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option or a quick dish to bring to potlucks. Trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe afterward. Plus, with fresh ingredients and a light dressing, it’s a meal that leaves you feeling good.
What’s in Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad?
Let’s break down the ingredients that come together to create this masterpiece!
Rotini Pasta: The spirals of rotini are perfect for holding onto the dressing and all the other delicious bits. You can use any pasta shape you like, but rotini is my fave for this recipe!
Cherry Tomatoes: I adore using juicy cherry tomatoes that burst with sweetness. Halve them for a splash of color and a fresh, juicy bite.
Grilled Chicken Breast: You can use leftovers or store-bought grilled chicken for convenience. I often grill a few extra pieces over the weekend, so I have them on hand when I crave this dish during the week.
Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini): These little cheese balls are a must! They add that creamy goodness that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes. Look for fresh mozzarella for the best flavor.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Nothing says “fresh” like the smell of basil! I love adding a generous amount, but adjust to your taste.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil really makes a difference in this dish. It adds richness and carries all the flavors together.
Balsamic Vinegar: This tangy ingredient gives the salad its signature taste. Don’t skimp on it; it really lifts all the flavors!
Garlic: I think a touch of minced garlic elevates this salad. It’s packed with flavor yet subtle enough not to overpower the other ingredients.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for highlighting the flavors in your dish!
Extra Basil Leaves (optional): Use these for garnishing your salad. They add that final touch of freshness and a pop of color!
Is Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This pasta salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Grilled Chicken: High in protein, chicken is fantastic for muscle health while keeping you full longer.
Cherry Tomatoes: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, tomatoes are great for heart health and skin. They also add a splash of color to your meal!
Fresh Basil: It’s not just for garnish! Basil has anti-inflammatory properties and adds flavor without the calories.
Watch the dressing choice, though! While olive oil is a healthy source of fat, you don’t want to go overboard with it. A drizzle is all you need to coat your salad harmoniously.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
– 1 lb grilled chicken breast (diced)
– 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 clove garlic (minced)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: extra basil leaves for garnish
This recipe serves about 4 hungry friends or 6 if you’re feeling generous!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad?
1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced grilled chicken, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil—all the fresh favorites!
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This is your magic dressing!
4. Toss the cooked rotini pasta into the mixing bowl with your fresh ingredients. Drizzle the dressing over everything and toss gently to combine and coat.
5. Taste-test and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or balsamic if it needs a little extra zing.
6. If you want to be fancy, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves before serving.
7. Serve immediately or chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors dance together before enjoying!
Perfect Pairings and Tips for Success
Let’s talk about how to make this salad even more delightful! First, consider tossing in some sliced avocado for an extra creamy texture. You could also swap out the grilled chicken for grilled shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
Remember, this salad stores well in the fridge for a couple of days, so it’s a great meal prep option. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to dig in, so the pasta doesn’t get too soggy!
Ultimately, I encourage you to give this Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad a shot! It’s such a crowd-pleaser, and I promise you’ll be surprised at how quickly it disappears. And please, let me know how it turns out when you try it—I love hearing your cooking stories! Happy cooking!
