In a medium bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, fine sea salt, ground pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Whisk together until well blended. Next, add the boneless skinless chicken breast to the mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 6 hours for deeper flavor. This step is crucial; the longer the chicken marinates, the juicier and more flavorful it becomes.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together another portion of extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, finely chopped basil, Italian seasoning, and salt until the mixture is emulsified. Set this aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Once the marinating time is up, it’s time to grill the chicken. Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 165ºF, ensuring it's juicy and cooked through. Don’t be afraid to watch closely, as overcooking can dry it out.
After grilling, transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute. Then, dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This will make it easy to mix into the salad.
In a large mixing bowl or platter, assemble the salad ingredients. Start with the chopped romaine lettuce as your base. Then, layer on the chopped tomatoes, roasted red peppers, red onion, pepperoni, and salami. Each ingredient adds its unique touch, creating a colorful display.
Next, drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. This is where the magic happens; the dressing brings all the flavors together, creating a cohesive dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
Finally, top the salad with the diced grilled chicken and sprinkle the fresh mozzarella over the top. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the ingredients are crisp and vibrant.
