Ready in 20 minutes, this juicy balsamic chicken Caprese salad combines tender grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fresh basil—all drizzled with a 3-ingredient balsamic glaze. A healthy, low-carb, high-protein meal you’ll crave on repeat.
Hey friends, it’s MD Ashraf Ahmed, your weeknight dinner hero! Tired of the same old chicken? This Caprese salad is your new go-to: restaurant-quality flavor with pantry staples, zero fuss, and macros that keep you full and energized. Perfect for meal prep, date nights, or busy families. Let’s make dinner delicious—grab your skillet and let’s go!
Why This Balsamic Chicken Caprese Is a Weekly Winner
Fresh ingredients + bold flavors = pure satisfaction. Each serving packs 35g protein, under 400 calories, and loads of antioxidants from tomatoes and basil. Studies show balsamic vinegar supports blood sugar stability. It’s gluten-free, keto-friendly, and costs under $4 per plate.
Kitchen Essentials (You Probably Own Them)
- Skillet or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Tongs
- Sharp knife
Safety tip: Cook chicken to 165°F internal temp. USDA Chicken Safety.
| Tool | Purpose | Pro Hack |
|---|---|---|
| Cast-iron skillet | Perfect sear | Preheat 3 min for golden crust |
| Meat thermometer | Safe doneness | Insert sideways into thickest part |
Easy Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad (Serves 4)
| Per Serving | Nutrition |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbs | 10g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Flavor Boosters & Variations
- Extra creamy: Add burrata or avocado
- Low-carb: Skip glaze, use vinegar only
- Vegan swap: Grilled tofu + vegan mozzarella
- Meal prep bowls: Add quinoa or arugula
- Kid-friendly: Serve deconstructed with bread
Step-by-Step Photo Guide (Text Version)
- Marinate: Chicken in zip bag with balsamic mix → 5–30 min (or overnight)
- Sear: Hot skillet → golden crust → flip once
- Rest & slice: 5 min tented → juicy strips
- Layer: Tomatoes → mozzarella → basil → chicken → drizzle
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: 3–4 days in airtight containers (store dressing separate)
- Reheat: Microwave chicken 30–60 sec; serve salad cold
- Freezer: Cooked chicken only, up to 2 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes! Cook 1–2 min longer per side.
No fresh mozzarella?
Use feta, goat cheese, or skip for dairy-free.
Make it faster?
Use rotisserie chicken + store-bought glaze → 10 min total.
Gluten-free?
100%—just check your balsamic vinegar label.
Lower calories?
Use chicken breast + half the oil → ~320 cal.
Best tomatoes?
Cherry or grape—sweetest and juiciest year-round.
Conclusion
This balsamic chicken Caprese salad is proof that healthy can be addictively delicious. Juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, and that sweet-tangy glaze—it’s love at first bite. Make it once, and it’ll be in your weekly rotation. Tag me with your version—I can’t wait to see! 🍅🌿🍗