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Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette – A Refreshing Twist!

Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette is a high-protein, low-carb delight perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with grilled chicken.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar Red wine vinegar works as an alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Use fresh garlic for best taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs Fresh herbs can elevate flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika is a substitution.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust according to preference.
For the Salad
  • 6 cups Baby Spinach Leaves Arugula or spring mix can be used.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved) Grape tomatoes are a suitable alternative.
  • 1 medium Avocado (sliced) Store with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  • 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella Balls Feta or goat cheese can be substituted.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Honey Can omit or use low-carb sweetener.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be substituted.
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Use high-quality oil for best results.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • whisk
  • Jar or Small Bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined. Coat the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes.
  3. While the chicken bakes, combine ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a jar. Whisk in ½ cup extra virgin olive oil until emulsified.
  4. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the avocado, and drain the mozzarella balls. Rinse and dry the baby spinach leaves.
  5. In a large bowl, lay down a bed of baby spinach. Top with the sliced baked chicken, mozzarella balls, avocado slices, and halved cherry tomatoes.
  6. Just before serving, drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Garnish with fresh herbs or balsamic glaze if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marinate chicken longer for enhanced flavor. Always let the chicken rest post-baking. Adjust vinaigrette ingredients to taste. Store salad components separately for freshness.

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