Description
A fresh and flavorful salad featuring juicy baked marinated chicken breasts paired with creamy fresh mozzarella and mixed greens. Perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 700g)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (60 ml)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (45 ml)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, torn or sliced (225 g)
- 5 cups mixed salad greens (about 150 g)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Balsamic glaze or reduction (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl or a zip-top bag and toss to coat evenly. Marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the fridge.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While chicken bakes, wash and dry mixed greens, halve cherry tomatoes, thinly slice red onion, and tear or slice fresh mozzarella.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, toss greens, tomatoes, and red onion. Add sliced chicken and mozzarella on top.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Toss gently or serve as a composed salad.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
[‘Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for best flavor; longer marinating (up to overnight) intensifies taste.’, ‘Bring fresh mozzarella to room temperature about 15 minutes before assembling for creamier texture and better flavor.’, ‘Use parchment paper on baking sheet for easier cleanup.’, ‘Let chicken rest 5 minutes after baking to keep juices locked in.’, ‘Adjust salad greens or add veggies like cucumber, avocado, or quinoa for a heartier salad.’, ‘If short on time, pan-sear chicken breasts 5 minutes per side before finishing in the oven.’, ‘Fresh oregano or basil can be used instead of dried oregano; add fresh herbs after baking for brightness.’]
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 420
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 38
Keywords: baked chicken salad, marinated chicken, mozzarella salad, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken salad, fresh mozzarella, quick dinner, Mediterranean chicken