Description
Succulent chicken meets creamy avocado in this Mediterranean-inspired Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad, blending fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Crisp ingredients and zesty dressing create a light, refreshing dish perfect for lunch or dinner that leaves diners craving more.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables and Fruits:
- 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
Dairy and Seasonings:
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Elevate the chicken by massaging it with a blend of fragrant olive oil, zesty garlic powder, aromatic Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Preheat a grill pan or skillet to medium heat, creating a sizzling surface for perfect chicken searing.
- Cook the seasoned chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring it reaches a golden-brown exterior and internal temperature indicates complete doneness.
- Allow the chicken to rest and relax for 5 minutes, then slice it into delicate, tender strips.
- Create a vibrant bed of mixed greens in a spacious serving bowl, providing a fresh foundation for the salad.
- Carefully scatter halved cherry tomatoes across the greens, adding bursts of juicy color and tangy flavor.
- Artfully arrange creamy avocado slices, creating smooth, rich pockets throughout the salad.
- Sprinkle miniature mozzarella balls, providing delightful cheese pearls that complement the other ingredients.
- Gently tuck fresh basil leaves into the salad, infusing the dish with an aromatic herbaceous essence.
- Layer the previously prepared chicken strips atop the colorful vegetable medley.
- Gracefully drizzle balsamic glaze in elegant swirls, enhancing the salad with a sweet and tangy finish.
- Serve immediately, presenting a refreshing, light culinary masterpiece bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Notes
- Slice chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness and easier eating experience.
- Ensure chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee food safety without overcooking.
- Substitute grilled chicken with rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken for quick meal prep.
- Keep avocado fresh by adding just before serving to prevent browning and maintain crisp texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg