Name: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups orzo pasta; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 avocado diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved; 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped; 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

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Introduction to Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad

Being a parent, especially a working one, I understand the value of time. This is why I am such a big fan of having this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad prepared. Not just for how simple it is to get on the table, but it’s laden with flavor that everyone asks for seconds! Imagine this: tender grilled chicken, ripe avocado, orzo pasta with the most perfect honey mustard vinaigrette. It’s your lifeline on a weeknight and a moneymaker for all of your loved ones—not literally, of course. So let’s crack on to this refreshing recipe

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad combines incredible taste with effortless preparation. In just 35 minutes, you can create a delicious meal that feels gourmet yet casual. The zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and creamy avocado harmonize beautifully, leaving your taste buds dancing. Perfect for busy nights or a relaxed weekend lunch, this dish is a sure hit that fits right into your life, making healthy eating a breeze!

Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad. These ingredients are fresh and versatile, perfect for a busy kitchen like yours. You can find most of these at your local grocery store or farmer’s market.

Orzo pasta: These tiny rice-shaped noodles are the star of the salad, adding a lovely texture and heartiness.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that grills to perfection, making it juicy and flavorful.
Olive oil: This versatile oil not only adds richness but also helps to marinate the chicken beautifully.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best, bringing a vibrant zing to balance the richness of the avocado.
Dried oregano: This herb gives a Mediterranean flair and complements the grilled chicken wonderfully.
Garlic powder: A must for that aromatic warmth without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to amplify all the flavors in each bite.
Avocado: Creamy and luscious, it adds a delightful richness to the salad.
Cherry tomatoes: Juicy little bursts of flavor that brighten up the dish.
Red onion: Adds a sharp bite and vibrant color to your salad.
Fresh parsley: This herb not only garnishes but also adds a fresh note to the overall flavor profile.
Bacon: Cooked and crumbled, it brings a smoky crunch that takes the salad over the top.
Mayonnaise: Creamy base for the dressing that ties all the flavors together smoothly.
Honey: A touch of sweetness that balances the tang of the mustard and lemon.
Dijon mustard: For a bit of tanginess that gives the dressing a lovely depth.
Apple cider vinegar: This elevates the dressing, providing a touch of acidity and brightness.

Want the exact quantities? Don’t worry! They’re available at the bottom of this article for easy printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad

Cooking should be a joy, not a chore! Let me guide you through the steps to create this delightful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad. It’s as simple as pie—well, maybe simpler! Follow my tips below, and you’ll have a beautiful salad on your table in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Orzo Pasta

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your orzo pasta and cook until it’s al dente, usually around 7-9 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick together. Once it’s done, drain it, and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the orzo aside to cool—this will be the comforting base of our salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This marinade is the heart of our grilled chicken! Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Make sure every piece is coated. This extra flavor will make your chicken shine!

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Let your chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have a little extra time, I highly recommend letting it sit for a couple of hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs. Just don’t forget to keep it in the refrigerator during this time to stay safe!

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Fire up your grill to a medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Don’t cut into it too soon! After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juicy goodness, making each bite a flavor explosion!

Step 5: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Gently toss these ingredients together until they’re beautifully mixed. The colors of this salad are a feast for the eyes—so vibrant and fresh!

Step 6: Make the Honey Mustard Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This creamy dressing is where the magic happens! It pulls everything together and coats each bite perfectly, enhancing the flavors of the salad.

Step 7: Toss and Serve the Salad

Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the orzo salad and give it a gentle toss to coat everything evenly. Finally, top it off with your sliced grilled chicken. Grab a fork, and dig in—each mouthful is a delicious combination of flavors and textures that you’re going to love!

Tips for Success

Let the orzo cool completely before mixing to prevent wilting the veggies.
Use ripe avocados for maximum creaminess.
Experiment with marinating overnight for added flavor depth.
Chop veggies uniformly for a balanced bite every time.
Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste for a personalized touch.

Equipment Needed

Medium pot: For cooking the orzo; a large saucepan can work too!
Grill or grill pan: Essential for the chicken; you can use a skillet if necessary.
Mixing bowls: To combine ingredients; any large bowls will do.
Whisk: For dressing; a fork can substitute in a pinch.

Variations for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad

Swap the Protein: Instead of chicken, try grilled shrimp or tofu for a refreshing twist.
Vegan Option: Omit the chicken and bacon, adding chickpeas or cannellini beans for protein.
Whole Grain Twist: Substitute orzo with whole grain pasta or quinoa for a healthier option.
Extra Veggies: Add grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or corn for a pop of color and flavor.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil or cilantro instead of parsley for different flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad

Pair with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a refreshing touch.
Serve alongside garlic bread or warm naan for a delightful complement.
Add a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for extra greens.
Garnish with extra parsley for a vibrant presentation!

FAQs about Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad

Can I make this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad components and dressing in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, toss everything together for the freshest flavors.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Yes, feel free to substitute orzo with other pasta shapes like bow-tie or penne. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may vary. You want a pasta that holds the dressing well!

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! By using gluten-free orzo pasta, you can enjoy this recipe as gluten-free! Always check the packaging to ensure your pasta meets your dietary needs.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers of this salad can last for about 2-3 days in the fridge. Just keep in mind that the avocado might brown a bit. A squeeze of lemon juice can help keep it fresh.

Can I add more protein to the salad?
Definitely! The beauty of this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad is its versatility. You can add grilled shrimp, feta cheese, or even chickpeas for extra protein!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad is more than just a cooking task; it’s an invitation to savor life’s simple pleasures. Each bite bursts with flavors that remind us of sunny days and cherished moments gathered around the table. I love how this dish turns ordinary evenings into memorable meals, bringing my family together to share stories and laughter. Whether it’s a rushed weekday dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch, this salad is a delightful reminder that cooking can be joyful, nourishing, and so much fun. Let’s keep those good times rolling!