Description
This Delicious Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and fresh dish perfect for quick dinners. Featuring tender cooked pasta tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic olive oil dressing, this salad is both refreshing and filling. Simple to prepare in about 30 minutes, it’s ideal for a light yet satisfying meal that combines classic Italian flavors in a convenient pasta salad format.
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
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Pasta 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
- 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 the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried basil, kosher salt, and black pepper until the ingredients are well combined and the dressing is flavorful.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the cooled cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and halved fresh mozzarella ciliegine into the bowl with the dressing.
- Toss the Salad: Gently toss all the ingredients together ensuring everything is evenly coated with the dressing and well distributed throughout the salad.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the freshly chopped or chiffonade basil leaves over the top of the salad to add a fresh layer of flavor and vibrant color. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Notes
- Cook the chicken separately if you want to add it on top or on the side; instructions do not specify cooking the chicken with the pasta salad, but chicken breasts can be grilled or pan-seared as preferred.
- For best flavor, use fresh mozzarella and fresh basil.
- You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead and refrigerate it to allow flavors to meld.
- Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar and oil to taste depending on your preference for acidity and richness.
