Ingredients
Balsamic Marinade & Dressing
- ¼ cup Balsamic Vinegar
- ¼ cup Olive Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 ¼ pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
- 1 pint Cherry or Grape Tomatoes, sliced in half
- 8 ounces Mozzarella Balls (Ciliegine)
- 1 Avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup Fresh Basil, sliced chiffonade (about 12 large leaves)
- Olive oil spray for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Either slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally (butterfly) or pound them to an even thickness no more than ½ inch. Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or a sealable plastic bag.
- Make Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper to create the balsamic marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Pour ¼ cup of the balsamic marinade over the chicken, stirring or shaking the bag to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes, allowing flavors to penetrate.
- Cook Chicken: Spray a large skillet or grill pan with olive oil spray and heat over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest Chicken: Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing; resting helps retain juices and tenderness.
- Assemble Salad: Arrange the sliced cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, avocado slices, and fresh basil chiffonade in a serving bowl or platter. Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and place on top.
- Dress Salad: Pour the reserved balsamic vinaigrette (remaining marinade) over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, marinate chicken at room temperature only for 30 minutes; avoid longer marination to prevent texture changes.
- Use fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine) for authentic Caprese flavor, but sliced mozzarella can be substituted if unavailable.
- Olive oil spray can be replaced with a light brush of olive oil if preferred.
- This salad is best served fresh; avocado may brown if left too long after slicing.
- To make it dairy-free, omit the mozzarella or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch or Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
