Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
– 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, romaine)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ cucumber, sliced
– ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
– ½ cup balsamic vinaigrette
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Creating Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette is a straightforward process if you follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Bake the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Prepare the Salad Base: While the chicken is baking, wash and dry the mixed salad greens. Place them in a large bowl.
5. Add the Vegetables: Slice the cucumber and red onion, then add them to the bowl along with the halved cherry tomatoes.
6. Cube the Mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella cheese into small cubes and add them to the salad mixture.
7. Slice the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into strips.
8. Combine Everything: Add the sliced chicken to the salad bowl and toss everything together gently.
9. Dress the Salad: Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
10. Serve: Transfer the salad to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
By following these steps, you will create a vibrant and delicious Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette that is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g