Description
Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together tender marinated chicken, creamy mozzarella, fresh veggies, and a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant lunch gathering. Packed with protein and low in carbs, this colorful meal not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your health goals. With easy preparation and versatile serving options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 5 oz baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (for vinaigrette)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together marinade ingredients: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts; coat well and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake marinated chicken on a baking sheet for 20–25 minutes until cooked through (165°F/75°C). Rest before slicing.
- Prepare the vinaigrette by shaking together balsamic vinegar, honey, mustard, salt, pepper in a jar. Gradually add olive oil while shaking until emulsified.
- Assemble salad: Lay spinach on plates and top with sliced chicken, tomatoes, avocado slices, and mozzarella.
- Drizzle with vinaigrette before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (about 350g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg