If you’re searching for a dish that’s both fresh and satisfying, look no further than this Chicken Salad Caprese Recipe. It brings together the vibrant flavors of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tossed with tender chicken breast in a luscious, tangy dressing. This recipe is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes, making it an irresistible lunch or light dinner option that’s easy to prepare but feels special every time you make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken Salad Caprese Recipe is simple but essential, contributing its own unique flavor, texture, or color to bring the salad alive. The fresh mozzarella lends creaminess, the cherry tomatoes bring a pop of sweetness and juiciness, and the basil adds a bright herbal note that ties everything together beautifully.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded: The hearty base, providing lean protein and a satisfying texture.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, these little bursts of freshness are essential for that Caprese character.
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella: Creamy and mild, mozzarella balances the acidity of the tomatoes and balsamic glaze.
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves: Adds a fragrant, bright herbal flavor that lifts the entire salad.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Brings richness and helps bind the salad without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess with a subtle tang and lightens up the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Infuses the dressing with a fruity depth and silky texture.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze: Adds sweet acidity and a glossy finish that perfectly complements the Caprese flavors.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the dressing and keeps the flavors vivid.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle savory note without overwhelming the freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat to round out the dressing.
How to Make Chicken Salad Caprese Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by mixing the tender cooked chicken, juicy halved cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and the thinly sliced basil leaves in a large bowl. This vibrant combination sets the stage for the creamy dressing to coat everything evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until you achieve a smooth, luscious dressing. This blend brings just the right balance of creaminess, tang, and savory notes to harmonize the salad.
Step 3: Toss and Coat
Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetables and gently stir until every piece is evenly coated with that creamy goodness. This careful folding ensures you don’t break up the ingredients but still get every bite perfectly flavored.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch
Finally, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and either toss lightly to marinate everything together or save it for an elegant drizzle just before serving. This sweet and tangy finish elevates the salad into a true Caprese-inspired delight.
How to Serve Chicken Salad Caprese Recipe
Garnishes
For an eye-catching and flavorful presentation, sprinkle a few whole basil leaves on top and add an extra drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving. A grind of fresh black pepper can also add an inviting aroma and slight spice.
Side Dishes
This chicken salad shines when paired with light, complementary sides such as a crisp green salad, crusty garlic bread, or a simple bowl of fresh fruit. These sides keep the meal fresh and balanced without overpowering the flavors of the salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t hesitate to get creative by serving this Chicken Salad Caprese Recipe stuffed into buttery croissants, nestled inside pita pockets, or spooned over a bed of mixed greens. Each presentation adds a fun twist that keeps this dish feeling new every time you make it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps nicely for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
Because of the fresh mozzarella and mayo-based dressing, freezing the salad is not recommended as it can cause texture changes and separation. It’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook, cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Just give it a gentle stir after taking it out of the fridge, and it’s ready to enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves prep time while providing flavorful, tender chicken that works perfectly in this Chicken Salad Caprese Recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap the fresh mozzarella for dairy-free cheese alternatives and replace Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt. However, the dish’s classic flavor depends on those fresh dairy elements, so expect the taste to vary slightly.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes! Adding diced cucumbers, roasted red peppers, or even avocado can bring interesting textures and flavors, but keep in mind that the balance of the classic Caprese flavors is delicate.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
Chilling for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but if you’re short on time, serving immediately also results in a fresh, delicious salad.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. This Chicken Salad Caprese Recipe keeps well for a few days in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for easy lunches or casual dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Salad Caprese Recipe is one of those fresh, flavorful dishes that feels like a true culinary hug every time you eat it. It’s quick to toss together, uses ingredients that are easy to find, and never fails to impress with its classic Italian-inspired flavors. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.
Print
Chicken Salad Caprese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Salad Caprese is a fresh and flavorful Italian-American inspired dish featuring tender cooked chicken breast combined with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Tossed in a tangy and creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings, then finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this salad is perfect for a quick, nutritious lunch or light dinner. It can be served on its own, over greens, or in sandwiches and pitas.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and thinly sliced basil leaves. Gently toss to combine the solid components.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well-emulsified.
- Toss the Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad, and lightly toss once more to incorporate the glaze throughout. You can also reserve the glaze to drizzle on top just before serving for presentation. Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute all the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- This salad is versatile and can be served on croissants, sandwich rolls, over mixed greens, or stuffed into pita pockets.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
