This colorful pasta salad brings together juicy grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s a fun and tasty way to enjoy your meal!
Layering everything makes it look like a work of art on your table. I love how easy it is to whip up for a picnic or potluck—just toss, layer, and serve!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend rotini or gemelli for their twisty shapes. They hold flavor well! If you’re gluten-free, quinoa or chickpea pasta works great too.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. You could use thighs for extra juiciness or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option!
Cherry Tomatoes: Mix red and yellow for a colorful salad. If you can’t find them, halved regular tomatoes are fine. Just make sure they are ripe for the best flavor!
Fresh Mozzarella: These little mozzarella balls (bocconcini) are soft and creamy. In a pinch, shredded mozzarella or feta cheese can make nice substitutes, but the flavor will be a bit different.
Basil: Fresh basil adds that classic Caprese flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried basil can work, though you’ll need less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but it’s all about the temperature and timing. Here are my go-to tips:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan properly to get that good sear.
- Brine the chicken for an hour before cooking for moisture, or simply let it rest after cooking—it matters!
- Use medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Following these tips will ensure your chicken is tasty and perfectly cooked every time!
Easy Layered Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups rotini or gemelli pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix red and yellow if desired)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad can be prepared in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and grilling the chicken, followed by about 15 minutes to assemble the salad, making it a quick and satisfying meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (cooked but still slightly firm). When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, half of the minced garlic, and the Italian seasoning (or oregano). Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken to keep it moist as it cooks.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts onto the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove them from the grill, let them rest for about 5 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, the rest of the minced garlic, and add salt and pepper to taste. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
5. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl or serving dish, start layering your ingredients. First, add the cooled pasta, then top it with the grilled chicken pieces, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. This colorful layering makes it fun!
6. Dress and Toss:
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Now, gently toss all the ingredients together so that everything is nicely coated in the flavorful dressing.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
If you have time, chill your salad in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Otherwise, serve immediately as is! For a finishing touch, garnish with some extra basil leaves and freshly cracked black pepper. Enjoy your vibrant grilled chicken Caprese pasta salad!
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 toss it in with the pasta and other ingredients!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No problem! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil (about 1 teaspoon) instead. Just keep in mind that the flavor isn’t quite the same, so adjust according to your taste!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and chicken ahead of time! However, it’s best to assemble the salad and dress it just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and avoid mushy pasta.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad has been dressed, it’s best to eat it within a day as the pasta can soak up the dressing, making it less fresh.
