When it comes to summer meals, few dishes strike the perfect balance between fresh, filling, and fire-cooked flavor quite like this Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad. It’s what happens when backyard BBQ vibes meet a classic Italian salad—and the result is pure magic in a bowl.

Imagine tender grilled chicken hot off the fire, perfectly seasoned to bring out its natural flavors, tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes that burst with sweetness, creamy mozzarella that adds a rich texture, and fragrant basil that fills the air with its unmistakable aroma. The pasta, cooked al dente, soaks up all the delicious flavor from the ingredients surrounding it, creating a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and refreshing.

This dish is also incredibly versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies—think crisp bell peppers, zesty red onions, or even a handful of arugula for an extra peppery kick. Then, it gets drizzled in a balsamic glaze so good, you’ll want to put it on everything. The tangy-sweet glaze ties all the elements together, enhancing each bite with a burst of flavor.

Not only does this salad look beautiful on the table, but it’s also the kind of recipe that disappears fast—so make a double batch if you’re feeding a crowd. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings, the Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad is a dish that brings people together, encouraging them to savor every last bite. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression and satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. Try it out at your next get-together, and watch it become a seasonal favorite!

Caprese Meets the Grill: A Quick Backstory

The Caprese salad hails from the Italian island of Capri and traditionally includes tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. This classic dish is celebrated for its simplicity and elegance, showcasing fresh ingredients at their finest. The combination of vibrant red tomatoes, creamy white mozzarella, and fragrant green basil creates a colorful presentation that’s both appetizing and visually stunning. Drizzled with high-quality olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar, the flavors meld together beautifully, offering a light yet satisfying culinary experience.

Now, we’re taking that same fresh combo of Caprese salad and giving it a flavorful twist by tossing it with grilled fire-cooked chicken and al dente pasta. This heartier version transforms the traditional salad into a complete meal that’s perfect for various occasions. The smoky, charred notes from the grilled chicken elevate the dish, bringing a delightful depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fresh ingredients. The pasta provides a satisfying texture, making it a filling option for gatherings or just a leisurely dinner at home.

This dish is picnic-perfect and cookout-approved, making it an excellent choice for warm-weather events. It’s not only delicious but also endlessly adaptable. You can customize it with seasonal vegetables, different types of cheese, or an assortment of herbs. Whether you’re looking for a fulfilling lunch or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this Caprese-inspired creation is sure to impress. Enjoy it chilled on a hot day or warm it up for those cooler evenings—regardless of how it’s served, it promises to be a delightful addition to your meal repertoire.

🔥 3 Tips to Nail This Dish Every Time

1. Use a Hot Grill, Not a Flare-Up

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken, it’s important to first get your grill hot enough to sear the meat effectively. Aim for a temperature range of about 400–450°F. This heat will ensure that you achieve a nice, caramelized exterior without the danger of flare-ups that could char the chicken. Before you place the chicken on the grill, brush the grates with some oil to prevent sticking, which allows for even cooking and makes flipping easier. Once grilled to perfection, remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period is essential, as it helps retain the meat’s juices, ensuring every bite is tender and succulent.

2. Don’t Skip the Fresh Basil

When it comes to enhancing the flavor of your dish, fresh ingredients can make all the difference. Dried basil simply cannot replicate the vibrant, aromatic quality of fresh basil. Tear up fresh basil leaves by hand just before adding them to your dish; this action releases their essential oils, keeping the flavor bright and lively. Tossing them in at the end of the cooking process preserves the delicate texture of the leaves, providing both a burst of flavor and a fresh visual appeal to your salad. Consider experimenting with other fresh herbs as well, as they can further elevate the dish and provide additional layers of taste.

3. Chill Before Serving

To truly let the flavors of your salad develop and meld together, it’s crucial to serve it chilled or at least at room temperature. After preparing the salad, place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This chilling period not only enhances the taste but also improves the overall eating experience by allowing the ingredients to harmonize. The coolness of the salad makes it refreshing, especially on a warm day. As you serve, consider garnishing with additional fresh herbs or a light drizzle of olive oil for a polished finish that will impress your guests.

🥗 Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 cups dry pasta (fusilli or bowtie work best)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Pinch of salt

Optional: Extra balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Grill the Chicken:
   Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of good quality olive oil. Grill over medium-high heat for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F). Once done, let rest for a few minutes to retain juices, then slice against the grain and serve. Make sure your chicken hits a safe 165°F using an instant-read thermometer like this one.
2. Cook the Pasta:
   Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until it is al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes depending on the type of pasta used. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy. Rinse the pasta with cold water using a colander like our favorite one to stop the cooking process and keep it firm. After rinsing, set the pasta aside for later use in the recipe.
3. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, mustard, and olive oil until well combined and smooth, ensuring that all ingredients are fully incorporated for a seamless texture. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor, adjusting to taste as necessary to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large bowl, toss together pasta, grilled chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with your favorite dressing and toss again thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and coated, creating a colorful and flavorful dish. We use herb scissors like these to quickly tear basil without bruising it.
5. Chill and Serve:
   Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly. Before serving, drizzle generously with balsamic glaze for added sweetness and tang, and garnish with extra fresh basil for a pop of color and aroma.

---

Serving Size

Serves 4–6 as a main dish

• Up to 8 as a side dish

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Sugar: 5g

Final Takeaway

Whether you’re hosting a cookout, packing for a picnic, or just craving something fresh with serious flavor—this Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad is your go-to summer MVP.

This delightful dish combines tender grilled chicken, al dente pasta, and the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil, all tossed in a light balsamic dressing. It’s the perfect balance of protein and carbs, making it a satisfying option for any summer gathering.

💡 Hot tip: Grill your chicken the night before and throw this together in 20 minutes the next day. This not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors as the chicken marinates overnight. You’ll look like a hero without breaking a sweat. This salad can be served as a main dish or a side, making it versatile for all kinds of occasions. Plus, it’s colorful and visually appealing, sure to impress your guests!

Don’t forget to toss in some fresh mozzarella for an extra burst of creaminess and to sprinkle some extra basil on top for an inviting aroma. Make this dish a centerpiece of your summer meals and enjoy the compliments that come your way!

Pairing Suggestions

Sides:

• Garlic bread or fire-toasted ciabatta
• Grilled zucchini or asparagus
• Skewered melon and prosciutto

Drinks:

• Chilled white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• Sparkling lemonade
• Light wheat beer or cider