Name: Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: PT-488565H19M36S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine); 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh basil (optional); 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

This Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette is everything a satisfying, nutritious meal should be—vibrant, flavorful, and full of texture. Perfectly seasoned chicken breasts are marinated and oven-baked to tender perfection, then sliced and nestled on a bed of fresh greens with creamy mozzarella balls, ripe cherry tomatoes, and velvety avocado slices.

The final touch? A rich drizzle of balsamic glaze that ties the whole dish together with a sweet tang. Whether you’re planning a light summer lunch, prepping meals for the week, or entertaining guests with a colorful spread, this salad delivers in both presentation and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Protein-Packed: The marinated chicken adds a hearty, filling element to your salad while keeping it lean and clean.
Perfect Balance: The creamy mozzarella and avocado complement the tang of the balsamic glaze and acidity from cherry tomatoes.
Meal Prep Friendly: Easy to prep ahead and assemble fresh when needed.
Versatile: Make it your own with extra toppings like nuts, croutons, or pickled onions.
Naturally Gluten-Free: A wholesome option that fits a variety of dietary needs.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, let’s set up your kitchen for success. Here are the tools and equipment you’ll need:

Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: Essential for evenly baking the marinated chicken while keeping it juicy.
Mixing Bowls: For whisking up the marinade and tossing your greens.
Tongs or Spatula: To safely handle the hot, baked chicken.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For slicing the chicken breast, avocado, and halving your tomatoes.
Salad Spinner (Optional): To ensure your greens are dry and crisp, which helps the vinaigrette cling better.

Ingredients for the Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Chicken Breasts: The star protein, marinated and baked to juicy perfection.
Olive Oil: Forms the base of the marinade, adding richness and helping the spices stick.
Garlic Powder & Paprika: Boost flavor with warm, savory notes.
Salt & Pepper: For seasoning the chicken and the salad layers.
Mixed Greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine): Crisp and refreshing foundation for the salad.
Mozzarella Balls (bocconcini): Creamy and mild, they contrast the acidity of the vinaigrette.
Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy bursts of sweetness and acidity.
Avocado: Adds a buttery texture and healthy fats.
Fresh Basil: Optional, but brightens the flavor and color.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzled on top for a bold, sweet-tart finish.

How To Make the Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly in this marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F). Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base

While the chicken bakes, rinse and dry your mixed greens using a salad spinner. Slice the avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, and gather the mozzarella balls.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

On a large serving platter or individual plates, arrange the greens as the base. Add the sliced chicken, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and avocado slices evenly across the top.

Step 5: Finish with Flavor

Drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire salad. Garnish with freshly chopped basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store This Salad

Serving Tips:
Serve this salad fresh out of the oven while the chicken is still warm, allowing the contrast between hot protein and cold greens to shine. It makes a fantastic standalone meal or a hearty starter.

For entertaining, arrange the salad on a large platter for a stunning presentation. Provide the balsamic glaze on the side so guests can drizzle to their preference.

Storing Tips:

Make-Ahead: You can bake the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Storage: Keep all components separate in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Combine just before serving.
Avoid Freezing: This salad is best fresh; freezing will affect the texture of the greens and avocado.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Ideally, marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

Can I use grilled chicken instead of baked?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds a smoky touch that works wonderfully with the balsamic glaze.

What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?

You can make a quick balsamic reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens. Or use a vinaigrette instead.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes, simply skip the mozzarella or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu for a protein-rich vegetarian option.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

Toss sliced avocado in lemon or lime juice before adding to the salad to slow oxidation.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this fresh chicken salad combo, try these other vibrant creations next:

Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a hearty hand-held meal.
Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for indulgent flavor.
Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza for a Greek-inspired twist.
Rotel Chicken Salad Dip if you’re into creamy, scoopable appetizers.
Spicy Ranch Taco Dip for a party-ready hit.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad or meal prep board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add olives or use a different cheese? Try a grilled version or something else?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other eat fresh and smart.

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