Go Back

Caprese Low Carb Chicken Salad - Fresh, Simple, and Satisfying

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Cooked chicken: 2–3 cups, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works great).
  • Cherry or grape tomatoes: 2 cups, halved.
  • Fresh mozzarella: 8 oz, cut into bite-size pieces or use mini mozzarella balls.
  • Fresh basil: 1 cup loosely packed, torn or sliced into ribbons.
  • Extra-virgin olive oil: 3–4 tablespoons.
  • Balsamic vinegar: 1.5–2 tablespoons.
  • Garlic: 1 small clove, finely minced (optional but adds punch).
  • Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon, to help emulsify the dressing.
  • Sea salt and black pepper: to taste.
  • Red pepper flakes: a pinch, for gentle heat (optional).
  • Leafy greens or zucchini ribbons (optional): to serve, if you want more volume without carbs.
  • Pine nuts or chopped toasted almonds (optional): for crunch.

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: If using leftover or rotisserie chicken, remove skin and bones. Shred or cube into bite-size pieces. You want about 2–3 cups.
  2. Slice the tomatoes: Halve cherry or grape tomatoes so they release some juice but keep their shape.
  3. Cut the mozzarella: If not using minis, cube into small chunks. Pat dry with a paper towel if it’s very wet.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust. It should be tangy but smooth.
  5. Combine the base: In a large bowl, add chicken, tomatoes, and mozzarella. Pour in most of the dressing and gently toss to coat.
  6. Add basil: Tear or slice the basil and fold it in just before serving to keep it bright and aromatic.
  7. Finish and season: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Adjust salt and pepper.
  8. Optional crunch: Sprinkle pine nuts or chopped toasted almonds on top.
  9. Serve: Spoon over a bed of greens or zucchini ribbons, or enjoy on its own for a cleaner low carb option.