Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad

Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad is a fresh, satisfying twist on the classic Italian Caprese. Juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, ripe tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella are layered with basil and drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a vibrant, protein-packed meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a beautiful fusion of hearty and fresh ingredients that make it suitable for both light lunches and satisfying dinners. It’s easy to make, full of wholesome, nutritious components, and perfect for warm-weather meals. The combination of grilled chicken and creamy avocado takes the traditional Caprese to the next level, while the balsamic glaze adds a deliciously tangy-sweet finish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Ripe avocados, sliced
• Cherry or heirloom tomatoes, halved or sliced
• Fresh mozzarella (balls or slices)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar reduction
• Optional: lemon juice for avocado

Directions

1. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill or pan-cook the chicken over medium heat until cooked through, then let rest before slicing.
3. Slice the avocados, tomatoes, and mozzarella, and arrange them in a large bowl or platter.
4. Add sliced grilled chicken on top.
5. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves.
6. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a touch of olive oil.
7. Serve immediately, optionally with a squeeze of lemon juice over the avocado to prevent browning.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken.
• Make it low-carb: Skip the balsamic glaze and use a vinegar-based dressing.
• Add greens: Serve over a bed of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for extra fiber.
• Try different cheese: Burrata or goat cheese can be used instead of mozzarella for a unique twist.
• Add nuts: A sprinkle of pine nuts or slivered almonds can add crunch.

storage/reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, especially because of the avocado. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

For best results:

• Store the balsamic glaze separately and drizzle just before eating.
• If prepping ahead, slice and add avocado just before serving to avoid browning.

Reheating is not necessary as this is a cold salad. If needed, only the chicken can be gently reheated before assembling the salad.

FAQs

Can I use grilled chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs are flavorful and work great in this salad.

How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?

Toss slices in lemon juice and store airtight if preparing in advance.

What kind of mozzarella is best?

Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or slices of whole mozzarella work beautifully.

Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?

Absolutely. It’s a great shortcut, or you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

It can be prepped in parts, but assemble just before eating for the best texture and freshness.

Can I use leftover grilled chicken?

Yes, this is a perfect recipe for using up leftover cooked chicken.

What tomatoes are best for this salad?

Heirloom or cherry tomatoes add sweetness and vibrant color.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What can I serve with this salad?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple side of quinoa pairs well.

Can I turn this into a wrap?

Definitely—wrap everything in a large tortilla for a delicious, portable meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad is a simple yet elegant dish that captures the essence of summer flavors in every bite. With juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and the classic Caprese combo of tomato, mozzarella, and basil, it’s a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Enjoy it fresh for a wholesome lunch or light dinner that never fails to impress.

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