Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad

There’s something about a summer evening that brings back memories of family dinners out on the porch—my dad would always whip up his “famous” pasta salad. It was simple—just pasta, chopped vegetables, and cubes of cheddar—but to my childhood taste buds, it was pure magic. That nostalgia inspired me to create this beginner-friendly Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad, a modern take on that comforting dish. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal cooking, this recipe is ideal for busy nights, light lunches, or easy entertaining. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or just short on time, this is one of those easy sheet pan dinner alternatives that delivers big flavor with little effort.

Why This Recipe is Special

This Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad brings together everything you love about summer in one bowl:

• Combines the juicy tang of cherry tomatoes with creamy mozzarella and rich avocado.
• Tossed in a honey balsamic dressing that’s sweet, savory, and herby.
• Protein-packed with grilled chicken tenders, yet feels light and refreshing.
• Great for meal prepping—flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even better.
• Totally flexible—swap out ingredients based on what’s in your fridge.

It’s the perfect quick and healthy meal for beginner cooks looking to impress without stress.

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and how they contribute to flavor, texture, and nutrition:

• Olive Oil – Forms the base of the dressing; adds richness and helps bind flavors.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Brings tang and depth, balancing out the sweetness of other elements.
• Honey – Adds natural sweetness and helps mellow the acidity in the dressing.
• Shallot & Garlic – Aromatics that provide sharpness and savoriness.
• Fresh Basil & Oregano – Bright, fragrant herbs that define the dish’s Italian essence.
• Chicken Tenders – Lean protein that grills quickly and absorbs flavor well.
• Short-Cut Pasta – Ideal texture for soaking up dressing; use whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred.
• Mozzarella Balls – Offer creaminess and mild flavor contrast; marinated versions add an extra punch.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Provide juicy bursts of sweetness and acidity.
• Avocado – Creamy and nutrient-dense; balances the tartness of the dressing.
• Salt, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes – Essential seasonings to enhance overall taste.

Ingredient Swaps for Flexibility:

• No shallot? Use red onion.
• No fresh herbs? Use dried, but reduce the quantity by half.
• Vegetarian? Omit chicken and add chickpeas or grilled tofu.
• Dairy-free? Use dairy-free mozzarella or omit cheese entirely.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the honey balsamic dressing by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, chopped shallot, minced garlic, chopped oregano, and chopped basil. Taste and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, toss raw chicken tenders with about one-third of the dressing. Let it marinate for 10 minutes (or overnight if time allows). Meanwhile, preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Grill the marinated chicken for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until fully cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when juices run clear and the internal temp hits 165°F.

Step 4: While the chicken cooks, boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process.

Step 5: In a large bowl, combine the pasta, grilled chicken (sliced if needed), mozzarella balls, halved cherry tomatoes, torn basil, and diced avocado. Pour in the remaining dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve either warm or cold. For best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in salads and keeps the texture balanced.
• Chicken Browning Too Fast? Lower the heat and add a splash of water to the pan to prevent burning.
• Dressing Separation: If your dressing separates, just shake or whisk again before using.
• Time Saver Tip: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked grilled chicken strips in a pinch.
• No Grill? A stovetop skillet or even a broiler works just fine to cook the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair It With: A slice of crusty garlic bread or a refreshing cucumber mint lemonade.
• Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or crushed croutons on top for extra texture.
• Make It a Meal Prep Hero: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Add avocado right before serving to avoid browning.

Engagement Features

We’d love to know how this Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad inspired dish turned out for you! Did you swap any ingredients or find a genius shortcut? Share your version in the comments, and if you post a photo on social media, tag us so we can cheer you on. Cooking is a journey, and you’re totally crushing it.

FAQ About Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad

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