Caprese Chicken Salad

Serves 4 · 15 min prep · 15 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 385 cal
• 34g protein
• 12g carbs
• 22g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
• 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
• 4 cups baby arugula
• 3 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

Instructions

1. 1Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them on a cutting board. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil, then season evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. 2Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot, about 2 minutes. Add the remaining olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.
3. 3Lay the seasoned chicken in the pan and cook without moving for 5 to 6 minutes, until the underside is golden brown with light sear marks.
4. 4Flip the chicken and continue cooking another 5 to 7 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part and juices run clear. Transfer to a plate and rest 5 minutes.
5. 5While the chicken rests, halve the cherry tomatoes and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the mozzarella pearls.
6. 6Stack the basil leaves, roll them tightly, and slice into thin ribbons (chiffonade). Add most of the basil to the tomato-mozzarella bowl, reserving a small handful for garnish.
7. 7Slice the rested chicken across the grain into bite-size strips or cubes. Add the warm chicken to the bowl with the tomatoes and mozzarella.
8. 8Drizzle lemon juice and red wine vinegar over the mixture, then toss gently so the warm chicken softens the cheese slightly and releases tomato juices.
9. 9Divide the baby arugula among four bowls or meal-prep containers. Spoon the chicken-caprese mixture over the greens.
10. 10Finish each serving with a zigzag of balsamic glaze and the reserved basil ribbons. Serve immediately, or chill up to 2 days for packed lunches (add glaze just before eating).