Description
Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette is a deliciously vibrant dish that combines tender, marinated chicken with creamy mozzarella, ripe avocado, and fresh vegetables. This salad is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy lunch, or meal prep to keep you nourished throughout the week. The homemade balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy kick that ties all the flavors together beautifully. With its high protein content and low-carb profile, this salad is a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite while keeping your meals healthy and satisfying!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- 1 avocado
- 5 oz baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 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
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a mixing bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Bake the chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Let rest before slicing.
- Prepare vinaigrette: In a jar with a lid, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper; shake well. Whisk in olive oil until emulsified.
- Assemble salad: On a serving plate, layer baby spinach followed by sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and mozzarella balls. Drizzle with vinaigrette before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg