Delicious Layered Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad

Delicious Layered Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad

This pasta salad layers juicy grilled chicken, tender pasta, fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all tied together with a light balsamic dressing. The layering makes it look beautiful in a glass bowl and keeps the flavors fresh until ready to toss and serve.

 Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Serves: 6

 Ingredients

For the Salad:

12 oz (340 g) short pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini work best)

2 medium chicken breasts, grilled and sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn

¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing:

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp honey

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt & black pepper, to taste

 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions.

Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper (and a pinch of Italian herbs if you like).

Grill over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).

Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 4: Layer the Salad

In a large glass trifle bowl or deep serving bowl, layer in this order:

Bottom layer: Half the pasta

Next: Half the grilled chicken

Then: Half the tomatoes and mozzarella

Then: Half the basil leaves

Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.

Drizzle dressing over the top just before serving, or serve on the side.

Step 5: Serve

Toss just before eating to combine flavors, or let guests scoop layered servings.

 Notes & Tips

Make it Mediterranean-friendly: Use whole-wheat pasta, grilled zucchini slices, and a lighter olive oil–based dressing.

Meal prep tip: Store dressing separately if making ahead so salad stays fresh and not soggy.

Cheese swap: Use crumbled feta for a saltier, tangier flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled?
A: Yes — it’s a great shortcut and saves time.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Skip the chicken and add grilled eggplant or chickpeas.

 Nutritional Information 

Calories: ~390 kcal

Protein: 25g

Carbs: 38g

Fat: 15g

Fiber: 3g

Sodium: ~380mg