Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. It combines succulent seared chicken, creamy avocado slices, fresh mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing that doubles as a marinade. The result is a refreshing, protein-packed salad that's both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Marinade/Dressing:

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 teaspoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, butter lettuce, iceberg, or spinach)

• 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)

• 1 ripe avocado, sliced

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, shredded

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade/Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, dried basil, and salt until well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish and pour 4 tablespoons of the marinade over them. Reserve the remaining marinade for later use. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, sliced avocado, and shredded basil. Add the sliced chicken on top.

5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the reserved marinade over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken instead of pan-searing.

• Use Different Greens: Swap the mixed greens for arugula or spinach for a different taste.

• Add Nuts: Top the salad with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken can be stored for up to 3 days, while the salad ingredients should be consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Assemble the salad fresh to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for thighs. They may cook slightly faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?

Yes, you can omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or chickpeas for protein.

3. Can I prepare the salad in advance?

It's best to prepare the salad components ahead of time but assemble them just before serving to prevent wilting.

4. What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?

Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used as alternatives, though they will alter the flavor profile slightly.

5. How can I make the dressing sweeter?

Increase the amount of brown sugar in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.

6. Can I use store-bought dressing?

While homemade dressing is recommended for the best flavor, you can use a store-bought balsamic vinaigrette if preferred.

7. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

8. Can I add cheese other than mozzarella?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different flavor.

9. How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

Toss the avocado slices with a little lemon or lime juice before adding them to the salad to help prevent browning.

10. Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, omit the mozzarella and consider adding dairy-free cheese alternatives or extra nuts for creaminess.

Conclusion

The Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the best of summer ingredients. With its combination of juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and tangy balsamic dressing, it's a meal that's both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.