Description
This Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette is a stunning mix of bold flavors and fresh ingredients—perfect for a quick dinner, healthy lunch, or even elegant meal prep. Tender oven-baked chicken, creamy mozzarella balls, ripe avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach come together in this easy salad recipe, all topped with a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a high-protein, low-carb, nutrient-packed option you’ll want on repeat. Whether you’re browsing for dinner ideas, healthy food ideas, or easy recipes for busy nights, this one checks every box.
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
5 oz baby spinach leaves
1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
1 avocado sliced
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake marinated chicken for 20–25 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F. Let rest 5–10 minutes, then slice.
3. In a jar, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in olive oil until emulsified. Set aside.
4. Prep the salad by halving tomatoes, slicing avocado, and draining mozzarella. Wash and dry spinach thoroughly.
5. Assemble the salad: lay spinach first, then top with chicken, tomatoes, avocado, and mozzarella.
6. Drizzle with vinaigrette before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and a balsamic glaze if desired.
Notes
Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Store components separately for meal prep to keep everything fresh.
Use firm-ripe avocado to maintain texture and avoid browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: easy recipe, chicken salad, healthy dinner, balsamic vinaigrette, mozzarella salad