Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad – Fresh, Protein-Packed & Easy

If you love the fresh, vibrant flavors of a classic chicken avocado caprese salad-but want something that can actually fill you up-this Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad is exactly what you need. It’s simple, wholesome, and satisfying, all while staying light and seasonal.

For more warm-weather favorites, try fresh pairings like cucumber tomato salad with lemon vinaigrette or protein-packed salads like Mediterranean chickpea with feta-each one built to keep your meals fresh, balanced, and full of flavor.

This version takes the Italian-inspired trio of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil and upgrades it with juicy grilled chicken and creamy avocado for extra protein and healthy fats. The result is a balanced, full-flavored dish that’s quick enough for weeknights and beautiful enough for entertaining.

And if you’re building a fresh spread or doing some meal prep, pair it with nourishing meals like lentil and roasted veggie bowls or light and colorful options like fresh spring rolls with peanut dipping sauce for a seasonal lineup that delivers on both ease and satisfaction.

Whether you’re building a better lunch, looking for a no-fuss dinner, or need a go-to dish for warmer days-this salad delivers on freshness, nutrition, and major flavor.

💡 Because a salad can be simple and still feel like a complete, crave-worthy meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another salad-it’s a full, flavorful meal that’s equal parts fresh and satisfying. Here’s why this chicken avocado caprese salad belongs in your regular rotation:

✔️ Light, Fresh & Filling

With juicy chicken and creamy avocado, this salad brings the perfect balance of lean protein and healthy fats-making it hearty enough to be the main event, not just a side.

✔️ Classic Caprese, Upgraded

It’s got all the charm of a traditional caprese-ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil-elevated with real meal power thanks to the chicken and avocado.

✔️ Naturally Low-Carb & Gluten-Free

No pasta, no croutons-just wholesome, naturally gluten-free ingredients that leave you feeling satisfied without the bloat.

✔️ Perfect for Any Meal

Serve it as a quick weeknight dinner, a bright weekend lunch, or a beautiful dish for spring and summer gatherings. It’s elegant but effortless.

✔️ 15-Minute Wonder

Using pre-cooked chicken (like rotisserie) means this comes together fast-great for meal prep or no-stress entertaining.

💡 Pro Tip – Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a few toasted pine nuts for extra flavor and crunch!

Ingredients

• 2 grilled chicken breasts (sliced or cubed)

• 1 large avocado, sliced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or diced fresh mozzarella

• Handful of fresh basil leaves

• 2–3 cups arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens (optional, as a base)

For the Balsamic Dressing:

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

Instructions

This chicken avocado caprese salad comes together in just a few easy steps-no fancy tools or cooking skills required. Use freshly grilled chicken or grab a rotisserie chicken to make it even faster.

1️⃣ Prep the Chicken

If using freshly cooked chicken, season and grill or pan-sear it until golden and cooked through. Let rest, then slice or cube into bite-sized pieces.

Shortcut: Use rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken for a no-cook option.

2️⃣ Slice the Vegetables & Cheese

• Halve the cherry tomatoes

• Slice the avocado

• Tear or chiffonade the fresh basil

• If using a block of mozzarella, dice into small cubes-or use mini bocconcini for ease

3️⃣ Make the Balsamic Dressing

In a small jar or bowl, whisk together:

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Whisk until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

4️⃣ Assemble the Salad

In a large shallow bowl or platter:

• Layer a bed of optional greens (like arugula or mixed spring mix)

• Arrange the sliced chicken, tomatoes, avocado, mozzarella, and fresh basil over the top

5️⃣ Dress & Serve

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad just before serving. Add a light sprinkle of flaky salt and extra black pepper if desired.

💡 Pro Tip – Serve with crusty bread or a lemon wedge for brightness and balance.

Serve immediately for best texture-or chill without the avocado and dressing, then toss when ready to eat.

Recipe Variations

Make this salad fit your mood or menu with simple swaps:

🔸 Caprese Chicken Bowl

Skip the greens and serve ingredients over cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous.

Perfect for: a hearty lunch bowl.

🔸 Grilled Peach Caprese

Add grilled peach slices or nectarines for sweet summer flavor.

Perfect for: late-summer entertaining.

🔸 Pesto Drizzle

Swap out the balsamic vinaigrette for pesto or mix the two for a bold flavor upgrade.

Perfect for: a herb-forward twist.

🔸 Dairy-Free Version

Use plant-based mozzarella or skip the cheese and add toasted pine nuts for texture.

Perfect for: dairy-free and vegan-friendly adaptations.

🔸 BBQ Chicken Caprese

Toss chicken in barbecue sauce before adding for a smoky-sweet combo.

Perfect for: cookout-inspired flavor.

💡 Pro Tip – Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving to make the tomatoes pop!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

These quick answers will help you get the most out of your Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad-whether you’re making it ahead, customizing it, or storing leftovers.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken❓

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just slice or cube it and add directly to the salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time❓

You can prep everything except the avocado and dressing in advance. Store ingredients separately, then slice the avocado and dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Will the avocado brown if stored❓

Yes, avocado tends to brown quickly once sliced. To prevent this, brush slices with lemon juice or add them right before serving.

Can I use a different protein❓

Absolutely. Grilled shrimp, turkey, or even chickpeas make great substitutes depending on your preference or dietary needs.

Is balsamic glaze the same as vinaigrette❓

Not quite. Balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter. You can use it instead of the vinaigrette if you prefer a more concentrated, syrupy finish.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge❓

Once dressed and with avocado added, this salad is best eaten the same day. If undressed and stored separately, the base ingredients will keep for 2–3 days in the fridge.

Conclusion – A Salad That’s as Satisfying as It Is Fresh

This Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad is proof that a simple, wholesome meal can still feel vibrant, indulgent, and complete. With the creamy richness of avocado, the juicy depth of grilled chicken, and the bright, herby freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil-this dish delivers layers of flavor in every bite.

It’s one of those rare recipes that checks all the boxes: easy to make, packed with real ingredients, visually stunning, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re keeping it light for lunch or dressing it up for guests, it feels like something special without needing much time or effort.

Best of all, it’s endlessly adaptable. Swap in seasonal produce, change up the protein, or make it meatless-it holds up beautifully and always feels fresh. It’s the kind of salad that keeps you coming back, not because it feels like a healthy choice, but because it tastes that good.

💡 Because the best meals don’t just fuel you-they feed your love of food, too.

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