Description
Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette is a fresh and satisfying dish featuring tender baked balsamic-marinated chicken layered over crisp greens with creamy mozzarella and a tangy homemade vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- For the marinated chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- For the salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls or sliced mozzarella
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- For the balsamic vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat chicken breasts with marinade and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bake marinated chicken for 20–25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, and basil.
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper for vinaigrette.
- Top salad with sliced chicken and drizzle with vinaigrette just before serving.
Notes
- Add avocado or toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
- Include fresh strawberries for a sweet contrast.
- Grill the chicken instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
- Store salad components and chicken separately for up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooked chicken (without salad) for up to 2 months.
- Omit mozzarella for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
