The Best Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe with Chicken

Makes: 1 Servings
Per Serving: 44g Protein | 445 Cal

 

Looking for a fresh twist on a classic Caprese salad? This Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad is a yummy, high-protein spin is a great recipe for lunch, dinner, or meal prep! It combines all the vibrant flavors of a traditional Caprese with a hearty boost of added protein to keep you full and satisfied. Trust me, you’ll want to make this one on repeat!

Why You'll Love This Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad

  • High-Protein Powerhouse: With 44g of protein per serving, this salad is perfect for keeping you full and energized throughout the day. It's a delicious way to fuel your body while enjoying every bite!

  • Fresh, Vibrant Flavors: The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy, rich mozzarella, and fragrant basil gives you that classic Caprese flavor with a hearty twist. It’s like a taste of summer in every forkful.

  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Whether you’re packing lunches for the week or need a quick dinner option, this salad is a meal-prep superstar. It holds up beautifully in the fridge and only gets better as the flavors meld together.

  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is super easy to whip up. Even if you’re short on time, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.

  • Customizable: This salad is endlessly adaptable. Swap the chicken for your favorite protein, try different types of pasta, or add in extra veggies. It’s a versatile recipe that you can make your own.

  • Nutritious and Balanced: Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s a well-rounded meal that hits the right balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

Whether you’re a Caprese salad fan looking for a heartier version or just someone who loves a good, wholesome meal, this simple salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

Ingredients

  • 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes (you can halve these if you don’t like to eat them whole!) – Juicy and sweet, these are the stars of the show!

  • 12 oz chicken breasts or chicken tenders – Cooked to perfection and packed with protein.

  • 8 oz dried pasta – I used Kaizen for a low-carb option, but you can use your favorite pasta.

  • 1 container of fresh mozzarella balls in water, halved – About 24 balls of creamy goodness.

  • Big bunch of basil leaves – Fresh and fragrant, adding that classic Caprese flavor.

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (you can use white balsamic vinegar if you prefer) – For that rich, tangy sweetness.

  • 1/8 cup red wine vinegar – A little extra zing!

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Just the right amount of healthy fat.

  • 1 tsp minced garlic (or 1 clove of garlic, minced) – Because garlic makes everything better.

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard – For a bit of bite and creaminess.

  • 1/2 tsp oregano (you can also use a blend of Italian seasonings if that's what you have on hand) – Herbaceous goodness.

  • 1/2 tsp basil – Because you can never have too much basil!

  • Salt and pepper – To taste.

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with a little salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through and golden brown (chicken should always be cooked to 165 degrees F), then dice it into bite-sized pieces. You can also use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep and very little effort.

  2. Prep the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and cook your pasta according to the package directions. Once it’s cooked to al dente, drain and let it cool.

  3. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, grilled chicken, and cooked pasta. Toss in the fresh basil leaves – don’t skimp, the more, the better!

  4. Mix the balsamic dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegars, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If you’re using a mason jar with a well-fitting lid, you can simply add all of your dressing ingredients and give it a good shake. Drizzle some balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything until well-coated.

  5. Serve and enjoy: Divide the salad into 5 servings, or pack it up for meal prep. Drizzle with remaining dressing if desired.

Nutrition (per serving)

  • 445 calories

  • 44g protein

  • 23g carbs

  • 20g fat

FAQ’s

This Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad is not just delicious; it’s a balanced meal that hits all the right spots, the perfect main course for lunch or dinner. Whether you're enjoying it fresh or as leftovers the next day, it’s a great way to savor the fresh ingredients of a classic Caprese with a satisfying protein boost. Perfect for those busy days when you need something quick, easy, and nutritious. Enjoy!

 
Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe with Chicken

Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe with Chicken

Yield: 1
Author: Ashley aka The Protein Snack Queen
Discover a delicious, high-protein twist on a classic with this Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad! Packed with fresh flavors and perfect for meal prep, it's a quick and easy recipe you'll love.

Ingredients

  • 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes (you can halve these if you don’t like to eat them whole!) – Juicy and sweet, these are the stars of the show!
  • 12 oz chicken breasts or chicken tenders – Cooked to perfection and packed with protein.
  • 8 oz dried pasta – I used Kaizen for a low-carb option, but you can use your favorite pasta.
  • 1 container of fresh mozzarella balls in water, halved – About 24 balls of creamy goodness.
  • Big bunch of basil leaves – Fresh and fragrant, adding that classic Caprese flavor.

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with a little salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through and golden brown (chicken should always be cooked to 165 degrees F), then dice it into bite-sized pieces. You can also use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep and very little effort.
  2. Prep the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and cook your pasta according to the package directions. Once it’s cooked to al dente, drain and let it cool.
  3. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, grilled chicken, and cooked pasta. Toss in the fresh basil leaves – don’t skimp, the more, the better!
  4. Mix the balsamic dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegars, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If you’re using a mason jar with a well-fitting lid, you can simply add all of your dressing ingredients and give it a good shake. Drizzle some balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything until well-coated.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Divide the salad into 5 servings, or pack it up for meal prep. Drizzle with remaining dressing if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

445

Fat

20 g

Carbs

23 g

Protein

44 g
Created using The Recipes Generator
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