Caprese Pasta Salad
This post may contain affiliate links.
Caprese Pasta Salad isn’t just another side dish. Think juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil tossed with pasta and a tangy balsamic dressing that actually makes you crave leftovers. Whether you’re dodging the oven or need a quick crowd-pleaser, this one checks all the boxes.
This recipe is a great way to use up leftovers! Try chopping some grilled chicken, oven roasted chicken, or even rotisserie for a little added protein!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cold pasta salad for summer: A refreshing, no-oven-needed option perfect for hot days and backyard BBQs.
- Make ahead potluck recipes: Ideal for prepping the night before and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- High protein pasta salad: Grilled chicken adds a protein boost to make this more filling than most. Want even more? Opt for a protein pasta.
This caprese pasta with chicken is the kind of recipe that earns repeat requests. It’s packed with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and tender grilled chicken—all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing with a secret weapon: Salad Supreme seasoning. The flavor is bold, fresh, and way more exciting than your average pasta salad.
It’s perfect for potlucks, quick lunches, or make-ahead dinners when the last thing you want to do is turn on the oven. Bonus? It gets better as it sits, making it a low-effort, high-reward dish you’ll want in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This caprese chicken pasta keeps things simple but flavorful, thanks to a handful of standout ingredients that bring it all together. Here’s what makes this dish pop (and a few tips to make it even easier):
- Italian Dressing – Use a zesty bottled version for speed, or go homemade if you’ve got a few extra minutes. Either way, it’s the base flavor booster.
- Salad Supreme Seasoning – This underrated spice blend adds bold, herby flavor with zero effort. Don’t skip it—it’s the secret MVP.
- Fresh Mozzarella – Go for the pearls or cut a block into bite-sized pieces. The creaminess balances the tang from the dressing.
- Grilled Chicken – A great way to use up leftovers. Slice it thin so every bite gets some protein.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Halved for the perfect juicy burst. If they’re super sweet, you’ve hit gold.
- Fresh Basil – Tear it by hand to avoid bruising and get that fresh, aromatic punch.
You really don’t need anything fancy here. Just quality basics with a few flavor upgrades. Keep scrolling for the full recipe and a few tips to make it ahead (yes, it holds up like a champ).
Jesseca’s Recipe Review
This mozzarella tomato pasta salad quickly became a favorite in our house. It’s fresh, filling, and just the right mix of creamy, tangy, and savory. The Salad Supreme gives it that extra something that makes people ask, “What’s in this?” And bonus, it tastes even better the next day.
Tip from Jesseca:
Make it the night before your event or BBQ. Letting it sit overnight in the fridge gives the pasta time to soak up all that flavorful dressing, making each bite even better. Just don’t forget to give it a quick toss and splash of extra dressing before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best parts about this pasta salad? It’s easy to tweak based on what you have on hand (or what your picky eaters will actually eat).
- No grilled chicken? Skip it for a meatless version, or swap in rotisserie chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon for a salty crunch.
- Mozzarella alternatives: Try cubed provolone, feta, or even shredded parmesan if that’s what’s in your fridge.
- Basil swap: No fresh basil? A sprinkle of dried Italian herbs works in a pinch, or try arugula for a peppery twist.
- Dressing switch: If you’re out of Italian dressing, balsamic vinaigrette is a solid sub with a sweet tang that still plays well with the classic Caprese vibes.
- Add-ins: Think olives, diced cucumbers, red onion, or avocado if you want to bulk it up or add extra texture.
Bottom line: this salad is forgiving. Play with flavors and use what you’ve got. Chances are, it’ll still be a hit.
Helpful Tools
- Airtight Container: Planning to travel with this recipe? Test out this set of bowls with lids (affiliate). Perfect sized and one of my most-used kitchen items!
- Silicone Spatulas: I am beyond obsessed with my set of silicone spatulas (affiliate). Perfect for mixing and can be used on hot or cold dishes.
- Cutting Boards: This recipe chops a lot of ingredients (think fresh veggies). Having a good set of knives (affiliate) and cutting boards (affiliate) can make things go by much quicker!
Recipe FAQs
Yes! Rotini, penne, bowties, or shells all work well. Just avoid anything too large or too small—you want pasta that holds the dressing and plays nice with the other ingredients.
It’s optional, but highly recommended. It adds bold flavor with zero effort. If you don’t have it, try a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of Parmesan as a DIY version.
Totally. Leave it out for a classic Caprese-style pasta salad, or swap in another protein like shrimp, chickpeas, or even crispy bacon.
You can, but it’s best after chilling for at least 4 hours. The flavors soak in and the pasta gets more delicious the longer it sits.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
This mozzarella and tomato pasta salad is perfect for prepping ahead, which makes it a total win for busy weeks or party planning.
- Make-Ahead: You can make this salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just hold off on adding the basil until right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant. The rest of the flavors actually get better as they sit.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before eating, and add a splash of Italian dressing if it’s looking a little dry.
Avoid freezing. This one’s definitely meant to be enjoyed cold and fresh.
Want to save this recipe?
Enter your email below & we’ll send it to your inbox. Plus get great new recipes from us every week!
Easy Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Salad Supreme seasoning
- 1 cup Italian style salad dressing (plus more as needed)
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese cubes
- 2 cups grilled chicken (cubed)
- 1/2 lb pasta (cooked and cooled)
- fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside and let it cool completely before assembling the salad.
- Prepare the dressing by combining the Italian dressing and Salad Supreme seasoning in a measuring cup or small bowl. Whisk well until the seasoning is fully incorporated into the dressing. Set aside.
- Add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and sliced grilled chicken. Pour the seasoned dressing over the top.
- Toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top and gently fold it in.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, give it a quick stir and add a little more dressing if the pasta has soaked it up.
Equipment
Nutrition
The nutrition facts provided are calculated using a third-party tool and are estimates only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, as well as portion sizes. For accurate results, please consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist.
This looks nice and light. great for the summer months and easy to make.
This salad is so pretty that I’m going to have to try it someday this week. It sounds delicious! [client]