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Grilled Chicken and Mozzarella Pasta Salad

Grilled Chicken and Mozzarella Pasta Salad
A vibrant, no-fuss pasta salad perfect for warm days or easy entertaining. Juicy grilled chicken pairs with creamy mozzarella pearls, sweet heirloom tomatoes, and tender zucchini, all brought together by a bright pesto dressing. The al dente pasta holds up beautifully, and the fresh basil elevates every bite. Served over baby spinach, it’s substantial enough for a main course yet light enough to enjoy poolside. Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Make it ahead or assemble fresh—either way, it delivers sunshine on a plate.
Ingredients
  • 12 oz (340g) fusilli pasta
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 8 oz (225g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 6 oz (170g) fresh mozzarella pearls
  • 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced and lightly grilled or raw
  • 1 cup (30g) fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup (30g) pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/2 cup (120g) green pesto
  • 2 cups (60g) baby spinach
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat

2. Season the chicken breast generously with salt and pepper

3. Grill for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)

4. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips

5. Cook the fusilli in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente

6. Drain, rinse briefly under cool water, and set aside to cool completely

7. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, basil, and toasted pine nuts

8. In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto and olive oil

9. Pour the pesto mixture over the pasta and toss until evenly coated

10. Arrange the baby spinach in a large serving bowl or on individual plates

11. Top with the dressed pasta mixture

12. Distribute mozzarella pearls evenly over each serving

13. Finish with a crack of black pepper and additional salt if needed

14. Serve immediately with or without crusty bread on the side

Tools
  • Pasta cooker
  • Grill
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Large serving bowl or individual plates

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