Description
This Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad combines tender chicken breast, al dente spiral pasta, fresh mozzarella, and vine-ripened cherry tomatoes tossed in a vibrant balsamic and olive oil dressing. Garnished with fragrant fresh basil, this refreshing pasta salad is perfect for quick, satisfying dinners or light lunches.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 breasts boneless, skinless chicken
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Kosher salt and 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, typically around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing or dicing.
- Whisk the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried basil, kosher salt, and black pepper to taste. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is well blended and flavorful.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked and slightly cooled pasta into the bowl with the dressing. Then add halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and the cooked chicken pieces.
- Toss Everything Together: Gently toss all the ingredients together to ensure the pasta, chicken, tomatoes, and mozzarella are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the salad as a finishing touch to add freshness and vibrant color. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to chill.
Notes
- For best flavor, let the pasta cool slightly before mixing with the dressing to prevent wilting the fresh ingredients.
- You can substitute spiral pasta with penne or fusilli if preferred.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best creamy texture and flavor balance.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated, but add fresh basil just before serving.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste preference.
