Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad

This Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and protein-packed meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes. Tender grilled chicken breast cutlets are topped with creamy mozzarella, sweet grape tomatoes, and fresh basil, then drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze and served over a bed of peppery arugula. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a light, satisfying salad, this dish delivers classic Italian flavors with minimal effort and maximum impact.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 25 minutes for a quick, high-protein meal
• Fresh, vibrant ingredients make a visually stunning salad
• Perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and veggies
• Easy to customize with different greens, cheese, or proteins
• Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual entertaining

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken breast cutlets (4 oz each) – Thin, tender, and cooks quickly
• 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil – Helps coat the chicken for grilling
• 1 tsp kosher salt and fresh black pepper – Seasoning basics for flavor
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Adds savory depth
• 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning – Classic Italian herb flavor

For the Salad

• 6 cups baby arugula – Peppery and fresh base for the salad
• 4 oz fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced – Creamy and mild cheese
• 3 cups grape tomatoes, halved – Sweet and juicy
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze – Sweet-tangy finishing drizzle
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped – Aromatic herb to brighten the dish

How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Brush chicken cutlets with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base

Divide arugula evenly among 4 plates, about 1 1/2 cups per plate.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Grill chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until fully cooked. Top with mozzarella and grill an additional minute to allow the cheese to melt. Transfer chicken to the arugula-topped plates.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Top chicken with grape tomatoes, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Use thin cutlets for quick, even cooking; pound thicker breasts if necessary
• Don’t skip resting the chicken briefly before slicing to retain juiciness
• Choose ripe, flavorful grape tomatoes for the best taste
• Drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving for a beautiful presentation

Equipment Needed

• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs
• Cutting board and knife
• Plates for serving

Recipe Variations

• No Italian seasoning? Use dried basil, oregano, or parsley
• Breaded cutlets – Try air fryer chicken cutlets for crunch
• Protein swap – Shrimp or salmon instead of chicken
• Greens swap – Mixed greens or butter lettuce instead of arugula
• Cheese alternative – Burrata instead of mozzarella
• Homemade dressing – Mix balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for extra flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad with crusty bread or a light side of roasted vegetables. It also pairs well with a crisp white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing meal.

FAQs

Can I cook the chicken on the stove instead of a grill?
Yes, use a grill pan on medium-high heat; it will achieve a similar sear.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Grill the chicken ahead and store separately. Assemble just before serving to keep arugula fresh.

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes?
Absolutely; either works well.

How do I keep the cheese from sliding off the chicken?
Add the mozzarella near the end of grilling so it melts just slightly and adheres to the chicken.

What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and a touch of honey or sugar for a similar effect.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad is quick, healthy, and bursting with classic Italian flavors. With juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic finish, it’s a meal that looks as beautiful as it tastes. Perfect for weeknights, lunch, or a light dinner, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

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