This Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad is a cool, refreshing twist on the classic combo. With juicy tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, grilled chicken, and fresh basil tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, it’s the perfect make-ahead dish for summer parties, picnics, or weeknight dinners.
Why We Love This Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad
It’s everything you love about a Caprese salad, turned into a hearty, chilled meal. Here’s why it works:
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead of time.
- Fresh Yet Filling: Balanced with protein and carbs.
- No Reheating Needed: Ideal for warm days and on-the-go meals.
- Customizable: Add extra veggies or grains if you like.
- Party-Ready: A crowd-pleaser for potlucks and BBQs.
Key Ingredients
You’ll find exact measurements in the recipe card. Here’s the essentials:
- Pasta – Short shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle.
- Cooked Chicken – Grilled or shredded, chilled.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Halved for sweet bursts.
- Mozzarella Pearls – Or diced fresh mozzarella.
- Fresh Basil – Torn for flavor and aroma.
- Balsamic Vinaigrette – Store-bought or homemade.
- Salt and Pepper – For seasoning.
How to Make Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad
Just a few simple steps and you’re good to go:
- Cook and Cool Pasta: Boil pasta to al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add pasta, chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Dress It Up: Pour in balsamic vinaigrette and toss to combine.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Stir and season with additional salt, pepper, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
- Add Veggies: Try chopped cucumber, spinach, or arugula.
- Make It Grain-Based: Use orzo or quinoa instead of pasta.
- Extra Zing: Add a spoonful of pesto or splash of lemon juice.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store dressing separately and mix just before eating for freshest texture.
What to Serve With Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad
Cookout Sides
Great with grilled corn, fruit salad, or potato chips.
Main Pairings
Serve alongside grilled burgers, kebabs, or sausages.
Light Lunch
Enjoy solo with sparkling water or lemonade on the side.
Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~25 minutes
Servings: 6
This Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad is a chilled, refreshing twist on a classic. Tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, grilled chicken, and fresh basil in a balsamic vinaigrette, it’s the perfect make-ahead dish for summer meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
- ½ cup fresh basil, torn
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinaigrette (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Add balsamic vinaigrette and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Before serving, toss again and season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
Notes
- Keep It Fresh: If prepping ahead, store dressing separately and mix before serving.
- Make It Ahead: Best when made a few hours in advance so flavors meld.
- Add More Veggies: Great with spinach, cucumber, or grilled zucchini.
