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Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella & Balsamic Bliss

This Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette combines succulent chicken with fresh veggies and creamy mozzarella, creating a healthy, low-carb delight.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 2 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with chickpeas or grilled tofu for a plant-based dish.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used for a different flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a good alternative.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (Minced) Garlic powder can be a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Italian Herbs Fresh herbs can also be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika works as a substitute.
For the Salad Base
  • 6 cups Baby Spinach Leaves Arugula or spring mix can be used for variation.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Any small tomatoes can be used.
  • 1 medium Avocado Add lemon juice to prevent browning.
  • 1 cup Fresh Mozzarella Balls Feta or cottage cheese can be alternatives.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup is a vegan alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Regular mustard can be used.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Whisk
  • salad bowl

Method
 

Marinating and Cooking Chicken
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Coat the chicken breasts generously with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 12 hours.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the marinated chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Rest the chicken for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Making the Vinaigrette and Assembling Salad
  1. In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in olive oil until well emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  2. Wash and dry spinach leaves, then place them in a large salad bowl. Halve cherry tomatoes, slice avocado, and drain mozzarella balls. Layer spinach, sliced chicken, tomatoes, avocado, and mozzarella.
  3. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or balsamic glaze if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps retain juices. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Drizzle vinaigrette just before serving to prevent sogginess.

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