Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette
Baked Marinated Chicken Salad with Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, fresh avocado, and juicy cherry tomatoes on a bed of baby spinach. Tossed in a homemade balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for quick dinners, elegant meal prep, or healthy lunches. With its rich flavors and nutrient-packed ingredients, its an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious yet wholesome meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 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
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Coat the chicken breasts well and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 2025 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165F). Allow to rest before slicing.
- For the vinaigrette, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a jar. Gradually whisk in olive oil until emulsified.
- Assemble the salad by layering spinach on a platter followed by sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and mozzarella balls. Drizzle with vinaigrette before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 95mg