This colorful Layered Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser. It features juicy grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil all tossed with pasta for a tasty dish!
I love how bright and fresh this salad looks on the table. Plus, with layers of flavor, it’s like a party in a bowl! Perfect for lunch or dinner—and the leftovers are just as good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral shape is fantastic for holding onto dressings and sauces. If you’re out of rotini, other pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle works just as well.
Grilled Chicken: I find grilled chicken adds a wonderful smoky flavor. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. For a vegetarian option, try diced tofu or chickpeas.
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems brighten up the salad. If they’re not in season, you can use diced regular tomatoes, but be sure to drain excess moisture.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: The creamy texture is essential. If you can’t find mozzarella balls, regular mozzarella cut into cubes is a perfect substitute. You could even try feta for a tangier twist.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch—just use less, about 1 teaspoon, since it’s more concentrated.
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta to that ideal “al dente” means it’s firm to the bite and perfect for salads. Follow these steps:
- Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil before adding salt—this enhances flavor.
- Add rotini and cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally.
- Test the pasta a minute or two before the recommended time by biting into it.
- Once it’s ready, drain it promptly and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
This simple technique keeps your pasta from becoming mushy, ensuring a great texture in your salad!
How to Make Layered Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb grilled chicken breast, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes before you can enjoy this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked through). This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool completely.
2. Combine Chicken and Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your diced grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Gently stir to mix everything together for a colorful and fresh base.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing will add a wonderful flavor to your salad.
4. Mix the Salad:
Add the cooled rotini pasta to the bowl with the chicken and veggies. Pour the dressing over the top. Toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are well combined and coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld beautifully! When you’re ready to serve, consider layering the salad in bowls for an attractive presentation. You can also garnish with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a lovely touch!
Enjoy your delicious Layered Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad! It’s perfect for a warm day or as a lovely side dish for any meal.
Can I Use Different Pasta For This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini pasta is great for holding onto the dressing, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed according to package instructions for your chosen pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Grilled Chicken?
If you’re looking for a different protein, consider using rotisserie chicken, shrimp, or grilled tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any substitute is cooked and seasoned properly to keep the dish flavorful!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, avoid adding too much dressing before storing; you can always toss it again with a bit more dressing or olive oil right before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead! Prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just remember to keep it covered in the refrigerator and toss it again just before serving to refresh the flavors and even out the dressing.
