Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad

Name: Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves (from about one 4-ounce container); ¼ cup pine nuts; ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 to 3 cloves garlic (to taste); 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste if desired); ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); ⅓ to ½ cup HemisFares Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 2 tablespoons HemisFares Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for cooking); About 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (diced into bite-sized pieces); ⅓ cup pesto; 1 ½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes (halved if desired); One 8-ounce container fresh mozzarella ‘pearls’ or small mozzarella balls (drained); About 10 fresh basil leaves (torn in half); 1 to 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction or balsamic glaze (for drizzling, or to taste)

Recipe By:

Rachael

Posted:

February 7, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad is one of those dishes that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Imagine juicy chicken paired with fresh mozzarella and bursting cherry tomatoes, all drizzled with aromatic homemade pesto. This vibrant salad beautifully blends flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re in a rush and need a quick dinner or you want something special for a gathering, this salad fits the bill perfectly. Plus, the colorful presentation makes it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Jump to:

What is Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad
Ingredients
Making the Pesto
Cooking the Chicken
Assembling the Caprese Salad
Serving Suggestions
Tips for Success
Variations
Storage Tips
Pairing Ideas
FAQs
More Easy Salads & Side Dishes Recipes:
📖 Recipe Card

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through each step, ensuring that your Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad turns out perfect every time. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get started on creating something truly delicious!

What is Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad

Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad is a vibrant dish that combines juicy chicken, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and a homemade pesto sauce. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors that can serve as a hearty main course or a refreshing side dish. This salad not only highlights the aromatic essence of basil but also embodies the classic Caprese elements—mozzarella, tomatoes, and a hint of balsamic glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad

This Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The fresh ingredients come together in harmony, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, the aromatic pesto elevates the salad, adding a gourmet touch that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves (from about one 4-ounce container)
¼ cup pine nuts
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 to 3 cloves garlic (to taste)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste if desired)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
⅓ to ½ cup HemisFares Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons HemisFares Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for cooking)
About 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (diced into bite-sized pieces)
⅓ cup pesto
1 ½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes (halved if desired)
One 8-ounce container fresh mozzarella ‘pearls’ or small mozzarella balls (drained)
About 10 fresh basil leaves (torn in half)
1 to 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction or balsamic glaze (for drizzling, or to taste)

Making the Pesto

To start, grab your food processor. In the canister fitted with the S-blade, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Blend on high speed for a few moments until the ingredients break down nicely. Now, with the motor running, drizzle in the HemisFares Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Continue blending until the pesto reaches a smooth, emulsified consistency. Set it aside; your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

Cooking the Chicken

Now, let’s move on to the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of HemisFares Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season it with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken while stirring and flipping intermittently until it’s about 90% cooked through. At this stage, incorporate the prepared pesto into the skillet, reducing the heat to low. Let it simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Your kitchen is about to fill with rich, savory aromas!

Assembling the Caprese Salad

It’s time to bring everything together! In a large bowl, combine the chicken with the pesto and pan juices. Add in the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and torn basil leaves. Drizzle everything with balsamic reduction or glaze for that sweet finish. Gently stir to mix all ingredients together, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm or at room temperature for optimal enjoyment.
Pair with crusty bread or garlic knots for a full meal experience.
Consider a side of mixed greens dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors.

Tips for Success

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the overall taste of the salad.
Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice in the pesto according to your taste preferences.
Make extra pesto to enjoy with other dishes or as a dip.

Variations

To keep things exciting, go ahead and try some variations. You could substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or roasted vegetables for a different protein. Adding pine nuts or walnuts to the salad introduces extra crunch, while experimenting with different types of cheese like goat cheese or feta opens up a world of flavors.

Storage Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, avoid adding mozzarella and balsamic until you’re ready to serve. Reheat the chicken gently or enjoy it cold for a refreshing lunch on the go.

Pairing Ideas

For a delightful meal experience, serve your Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad with a chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea. You might also consider a light pasta or grain salad for a more filling meal that complements the salad beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the pesto in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

2. What should I do if I don’t have pine nuts?
You can substitute pine nuts with walnuts or sunflower seeds, which work just as well.

3. Is this salad meal prep-friendly?
Absolutely! Just store components separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat.

4. How can I add more vegetables to the salad?
Consider adding arugula, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and vibrant color.

5. Can I use store-bought pesto instead of making my own?
Yes, store-bought pesto is a time-saving alternative, though homemade adds a fresher taste.

This delightful Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad is a perfect way to indulge in fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck dish, this recipe stands out as a crowd-pleaser. Its versatility allows you to experiment and personalize it, while the nourishing ingredients leave you feeling satisfied. Ready to impress your family and friends? Enjoy the vibrant tastes and the culinary joy this dish brings to your table.

More Easy Salads & Side Dishes Recipes:

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card