Imagine a dish that combines the classic Italian charm of Caprese salad with succulent, perfectly seasoned chicken – a mouthwatering fusion that transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Caprese Salad with Chicken is not just a recipe; it's a vibrant, fresh, and incredibly easy-to-prepare dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your dining table in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then slice the chicken into thin, diagonal strips.
- While the chicken is resting, arrange fresh mozzarella slices on a large serving platter, creating a base layer.
- Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and between the mozzarella slices.
- Gently place the sliced chicken over the mozzarella and tomatoes.
- Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them generously over the salad.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil and balsamic glaze over the entire dish.
- Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately at room temperature to enjoy the full flavor of the fresh ingredients.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it's perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the highest quality, freshest mozzarella, ripe cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves for the most authentic flavor.
- Resting the Chicken: Always let your chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help retain its juices, ensuring each slice remains tender and moist.
- Room Temperature Serving: Serve this salad at room temperature to allow the flavors of olive oil, balsamic glaze, and fresh herbs to fully develop and complement each other.
- Balsamic Glaze Tip: If you can't find pre-made balsamic glaze, you can easily reduce balsamic vinegar in a pan until it becomes thick and syrupy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 581kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 180mg
