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Grilled Chicken Orzo Salad

Grilled Chicken Orzo Salad: A Fresh Twist for Summer Meals

A vibrant Grilled Chicken Orzo Salad that combines juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and tender orzo, all tossed in a zesty citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing summer meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta substitutable with gluten-free orzo for dietary needs
  • 2 breasts Grilled Chicken Breasts leftover rotisserie chicken works just as well
  • 1 whole Avocado squeeze lime juice on it to prevent browning
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes diced tomatoes can be used instead for convenience
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion shallots are a milder alternative
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese substitute with goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil avocado oil can be a great substitution
  • 2 tablespoons White Vinegar balsamic vinegar can give a sweeter twist
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard omit for a simpler mix or choose a vegan-friendly option
  • 1 tablespoon Honey use maple syrup for a vegan alternative
  • 2 cloves Garlic garlic powder serves as an alternative for a milder aroma

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Grill or grill pan
  • Medium bowl
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Cook the Orzo: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil, season, and grill for 5-6 minutes on each side until cooked through. Allow it to rest before slicing.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and seasonings until smooth.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sliced chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and feta cheese. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
  5. Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before serving. Add avocado just before serving if preparing ahead.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Rest the chicken before slicing for juiciness. Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for extra flavor. Adjust dressing seasoning to taste.

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