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Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

A close-up of caprese chicken pasta salad featuring fusilli pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chicken chunks drizzled with balsamic glaze.
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You make this refreshing, high protein pasta salad by combining grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a simple balsamic dressing. It is perfect for summer meals or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound rotini or penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini), drained
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. While the pasta cools, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, halved tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and chopped basil.
  4. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend. This makes a great make ahead chicken salad for parties.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
  • You can grill the chicken breast ahead of time for a grilled chicken pasta salad variation.
  • If you do not have fresh mozzarella pearls, dice a block of fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
  • This salad is excellent served cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/caprese-chicken-pasta-salad-recipe/