Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad

Savor the Freshness: Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad Recipe

Hello, food lovers! Today, I’m thrilled to guide you through a recipe that captures the essence of summer in every bite—the Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad. This dish is a splendid mix of juicy, grilled chicken with the lush, creamy textures of avocado and mozzarella, all brightened by the tangy zest of a homemade balsamic dressing. It’s a recipe that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that dance harmoniously on your palate.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade/Dressing:

• ¼ cup (60 mL) balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons (30 mL) olive oil
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Salad:

• 4 chicken thigh fillets, skin removed (no bone)
• 5 cups Romaine lettuce leaves, washed and dried
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced
• ½ cup mini mozzarella or bocconcini cheese balls
• ¼ cup basil leaves, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare the Marinade/Dressing: Combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, dried basil, and salt in a bowl. Whisk them together thoroughly to blend the flavors, creating a rich and versatile marinade that doubles as your salad dressing.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Lay the chicken thigh fillets in a shallow dish. Pour about 4 tablespoons of the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate briefly while you prepare the grill pan.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a teaspoon of olive oil in a large grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken in the pan and sear each side until golden and crispy—about 5-6 minutes per side. Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, transfer it to a cutting board to rest.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, arrange the crisp Romaine lettuce as the base. Add the sliced avocado and tomatoes, distributing them evenly. Slice the rested chicken into strips and add them to the salad. Scatter the mini mozzarella cheese balls and freshly sliced basil over the top.
5. Final Touches: Drizzle the remaining balsamic dressing over the assembled salad. Season with additional salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
6. Serve: Mix gently to combine the ingredients under the drizzle of dressing, then serve the salad immediately to enjoy the maximum burst of fresh flavors.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Calories: 426 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

This Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad is ideal for a light yet fulfilling meal, whether you’re looking to impress guests at a summer party or simply making a nutritious dinner for your family. Its combination of simple, fresh ingredients and quick preparation makes it a staple recipe for anyone who loves flavorful, healthy food. Enjoy the delightful contrasts of textures and tastes that this salad offers!

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