Ladies, I could NOTTT get this recipe on the blog to fast enough to share with you. I LOVE😍 spring lunches. You know, the ones that feel light, fresh, and effortless🌱—but still pack enough flavor to make you look forward to mealtime. Enter: Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad. This little beauty is the perfect balance of fresh veggies, creamy mozzarella, and tender grilled chicken, all tied together with a tangy balsamic glaze.
It’s simple, satisfying, and totally spring. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping it up for a family lunch, this recipe is a winner. Fat loss friendly – it packs tons of metabolism-boosting protein, good fats, and quality carbs.
The best part? It’s quick, easy, and totally adjustable if you’re cooking for more people (or just want leftovers, because trust me, you’ll want them).
Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
What You’ll Need (1 Serving):
- 1 oz bow tie pasta, dry
- 1/2 shallot, diced
- 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 35g mini mozzarella pearls
- 1 tsp oil
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar
- Italian seasoning (as much or as little as you like!)
- Parsley (fresh is best, but dried works too)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 4 oz grilled chicken (make this ahead to save time!)
- 1 tsp balsamic glaze
How to Make It:
- Grill Your Chicken: Start by grilling your chicken ahead of time. This makes everything come together so much faster when you’re ready to assemble.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your bow tie pasta until it’s al dente. Don’t overcook it—we want a little bite to it! Once it’s done, drain and let it cool.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the shallot, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss everything until it’s well combined.
- Add the Chicken: Slice or dice your grilled chicken and mix it into the pasta salad.
- Drizzle the Glaze: Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and either mix it all together or keep it on top for a pretty presentation.
- Enjoy! Or, if you’re meal prepping, portion everything out into containers for the week.
Pro Tips for Success:
- Meal Prep Like a Boss: This recipe multiplies like a dream. I made 4 servings for lunches this week, and it’s been a game-changer for my packed schedule. Just 4x the ingredients, and you’re set!
- Keep it Cool: Let your pasta cool completely before adding the other ingredients. Warm pasta + mozzarella = a melty mess (unless that’s your thing, in which case, go for it!).
- Balsamic Glaze Magic: Don’t skip this step! The balsamic glaze ties everything together with just the right amount of sweetness and tang.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving):
- Calories: 460
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 34g
- Protein: 46g
I can’t tell you how much I am lovinggg this recipe. It’s fresh, it’s flavorful, and it feels like a little taste of spring in every bite (I’ve been eating it outside as it has warmed up slightly in Arkansas). Plus, it’s packed with protein to keep you full and satisfied all afternoon.
If you make it, let me know! I’d love to hear how you like it (and bonus points for food pics—tag me on Instagram at @balancebyhilary).
Enjoy, babes!
XO,
Hilary
❤️🔥Your Goal Body Guide
