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Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Bliss

A flavorful Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette that’s healthy and perfect for meal prep.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Can use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a milder substitute
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Garlic powder works in a pinch
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs Fresh herbs boost aroma significantly
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika is a fine alternative
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust according to your taste
For the Salad
  • 4 cups Baby Spinach Leaves Arugula or kale work for different textures
  • 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes (halved) Diced bell peppers can provide crunch
  • 1 large Avocado (sliced) Opt for firm-ripe avocados for the best texture
  • 1 cup Fresh Mozzarella Balls Can swap for feta or goat cheese
For the Vinaigrette
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Omit or use a sugar-free sweetener for a low-carb choice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Whole-grain mustard offers additional texture
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Flavored oils can enhance it further

Equipment

  • medium bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Submerge the chicken breasts in the marinade and allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or parchment paper.
  3. Transfer the marinated chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  4. In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk well to blend and gradually drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until emulsified and smooth.
  5. While the chicken is baking, wash and prep your salad components. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the avocado, and drain the mozzarella balls.
  6. On a large platter, create a bed of baby spinach. Top with sliced chicken, halved tomatoes, avocado slices, and mozzarella balls.
  7. Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the assembled salad just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 28gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allow chicken to rest before slicing for moisture. Store salad ingredients separately to keep them fresh. Toss avocado slices in lemon juice to prevent browning.

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