This Fresh Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad combines juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella with a sprinkle of fresh basil. It’s colorful, tasty, and super refreshing!
You can whip this up in no time—perfect for a sunny day or a picnic! I love drizzling some olive oil and balsamic vinegar on top for an extra zing. Yum! 🍅🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use rotini or penne for their great holding power for the dressing. If you’re gluten-free, swap it for a gluten-free pasta like rice or quinoa pasta. Farro also adds a nice texture if you’re feeling adventurous!
Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken. I often go for rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor. If you’re going vegetarian, try using chickpeas or cooked lentils instead.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes are the best for this recipe, but any ripe tomato will work. If they’re out of season, consider using sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor. Just chop them up and add them in!
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella gives that creamy taste, but if you can’t find it, go for mini mozzarella balls or even feta for a tangy twist.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that Caprese vibe! If you don’t have any, you could use arugula or spinach. Dried basil works in a pinch but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but nailing it means getting the perfect texture. Follow these steps for the best results!
- Start with a large pot of salted boiling water. This helps season the pasta as it cooks.
- Add the pasta and stir immediately to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions, checking a minute before the time is up. Aim for ‘al dente’—it should be firm to the bite.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to halt the cooking process. This keeps it from becoming mushy in your salad.
By paying attention to these details, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked pasta that enhances your salad!
Fresh Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 1/2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a slight kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. It’s a quick and easy dish that you can prepare for a picnic, party, or just for a weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually means firm but not crunchy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the diced or shredded chicken. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. This vibrant mix will be the star of your salad!
3. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or glaze), minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’d like a little spice. This dressing is full of flavor and will tie everything together.
4. Combining It All:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Take a moment to taste, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
5. Chilling and Serving:
Cover the salad and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before serving, you may want to garnish with a few extra basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch.
Enjoy your fresh, vibrant Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad! Perfect for any occasion.
FAQ about Fresh Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini and penne work great, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just make sure to cook it until al dente for the best texture in the salad.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes fabulous cold, but you can also let it come to room temperature before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge and take it out about 30 minutes before serving to let it warm slightly—this will enhance the flavors!
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella?
If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use shredded mozzarella or even feta for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
