Layered Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad
This Layered Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad brings together juicy grilled chicken, al dente pasta, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil — all drizzled with a zesty balsamic glaze. Layered presentation keeps textures distinct and gorgeous, making this salad a showstopper at any potluck or summer meal.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Assembly Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Chicken:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Pasta Salad:
8 oz (225g) short pasta (e.g., fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
1.5 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Balsamic Glaze:
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tsp honey or brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Marinate & Grill Chicken:
In a bowl or bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 6 hours).
Grill or pan-sear chicken over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
2. Cook Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare Balsamic Glaze:
Simmer balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, until thickened and syrupy. Stir in sweetener if using. Cool before drizzling.
4. Layer the Salad:
In a large clear bowl or trifle dish, layer in this order:
Half of the cooked pasta
Half of the cherry tomatoes
Half of the mozzarella
Half of the fresh basil
Half of the grilled chicken
Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze and olive oil
Repeat layers
Top with extra basil and more glaze for presentation
5. Chill or Serve Immediately:
Serve right away or chill for up to 2 hours. Toss gently just before serving, if desired.
Notes & Tips:
Make it ahead: Prep components in advance, assemble just before serving.
Want extra crunch? Add toasted pine nuts or croutons on top.
Need it dairy-free? Swap mozzarella for avocado or marinated tofu.
No grill? Bake chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use rotini or orzo instead of penne?
A: Yes! Any short pasta works well — just cook it al dente.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely — skip the chicken or substitute grilled tofu or chickpeas.
Q: Will it get soggy if made ahead?
A: For best texture, layer and chill just before serving. Keep dressing and glaze separate if prepping more than 1 day ahead.
Q: Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
A: Yes, it’s a great time-saver and works perfectly here.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 490
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 32g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 520mg