This Easy Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun mix of tender pasta, juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil. Drizzled with olive oil and balsamic, it’s colorful and tasty!
This salad is perfect for lunch or dinner and is super quick to whip up. I love making it when the weather is nice; it feels like a picnic in a bowl! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini, but radiatore or any short pasta will work great. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to, but you can also use cooked rotisserie chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly if using pre-cooked ingredients.
Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness is a highlight in this salad. If they’re out of season, try grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Just remember to deseed larger tomatoes to avoid excess moisture.
Fresh mozzarella: Mozzarella balls add a nice touch, but feta cheese is a tasty alternative that brings a different flavor. Vegan mozzarella can also work if you want a dairy-free option.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that classic Caprese flavor. If you can’t find it, try parsley or even a small amount of dried basil in a pinch!
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, but here’s how to ensure they’re juicy and flavorful:
- Always let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, and spices. It enhances flavor.
- Cook on medium-high heat without overcrowding the pan. This allows for better browning.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices in!
Following these tips will give you perfect chicken every time, making your salad the star of the meal!
How to Make Easy Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Protein:
- 8 oz rotini or radiatore pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Fruits & Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
Cheese:
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
Dressings & Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for cooking
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of oregano and basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking and assembling. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a delightful weekend lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once bubbling, add the rotini or radiatore pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice golden brown color. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Mix the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, diced avocado, and fresh basil leaves. Everything should look vibrant and fresh!
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Toss everything gently to make sure it’s all evenly coated. Be careful to keep the avocado in chunky pieces for added texture.
5. Season and Serve:
Give your salad a taste! Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper if needed. Finally, garnish with extra basil leaves for a pop of color. You can serve this salad chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor!
Enjoy your fresh, colorful, and flavorful Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad that brings together all the best ingredients for a delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this salad. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces and mix it in with the other ingredients. This will save you time and add delicious flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To prevent the avocado from browning, you might want to add the diced avocado fresh when you’re ready to serve again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta, chicken, and mix everything except the avocado and dressing up to a day in advance. Just keep the ingredients separate and combine them with the dressing and avocado just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Balls?
If you don’t have mozzarella balls on hand, feta cheese offers a nice tangy alternative. Cube it up and toss it in. For a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese or simply omit it for a lighter salad.
