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Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette

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A flavorful and healthy chicken salad featuring marinated and baked chicken breasts served over fresh greens with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (for marinade)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (for marinade)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (for dressing)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil (for dressing)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (for dressing)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (for dressing)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for the marinade.
  2. Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  5. While chicken bakes, prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  6. In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, and chopped basil.
  7. Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad and drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette just before serving.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Substitute mozzarella with feta or goat cheese for a different twist.
  • Serve immediately after dressing to keep the greens crisp.

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