Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad

Short Description

This Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed dish featuring juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, tender orzo pasta, and a zesty lemon herb dressing. It’s a vibrant, wholesome salad perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, herbaceous flavor thanks to a homemade lemon dressing
• Perfect balance of textures with creamy avocado, juicy chicken, and chewy orzo
• Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or cheeses
• Makes a complete meal in one bowl
• Great for meal prep or entertaining
• Can be served warm or chilled
• A nutrient-dense combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh produce
• Simple to make but feels gourmet
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• A beautiful dish that presents well for gatherings

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dressing

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Honey
• Grainy Dijon mustard
• Fresh lemon juice
• White balsamic vinegar
• Fresh chopped herbs (such as rosemary, oregano, and basil)
• Shallot, grated
• Garlic cloves, grated
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes

For the Salad

• Boneless skinless chicken tenders
• Red bell pepper, quartered
• Orzo pasta
• Cheddar cheese, cubed
• Blue cheese, crumbled (optional)
• Red leaf lettuce, shredded
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cooked bacon, crumbled
• Avocado, sliced

Directions

1. Prepare the dressing: In a jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, mustard, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, herbs, shallot, and garlic. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place chicken tenders in a bowl and coat with about one-third of the dressing. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
3. Grill the chicken and pepper: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Grill chicken for 10–12 minutes, turning once, until cooked through. Grill the bell pepper until lightly charred, then chop into pieces.
4. Cook the orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
5. Combine ingredients: To the bowl with orzo, add cheddar, blue cheese if using, and one-third of the dressing. Toss gently. Then add chicken, grilled bell pepper, shredded lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled bacon. Mix again.
6. Add avocado and serve: Top with sliced avocado and drizzle with remaining dressing. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit chicken and bacon. Use grilled tofu or chickpeas for protein.
• Seafood twist: Substitute grilled shrimp or salmon for chicken.
• Cheese swaps: Replace blue cheese with feta or goat cheese.
• Pasta alternatives: Use couscous, quinoa, or another small pasta if orzo is unavailable.
• Extra veggies: Add cucumber, red onion, or spinach for more crunch and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature. If desired, gently reheat chicken separately and stir back into the salad.

FAQs

How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?

Toss the avocado slices with a bit of lemon juice just before serving to prevent browning.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare all components and assemble just before serving, or store pre-mixed without avocado to keep it fresh.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Not with orzo, but you can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable.

What can I use instead of white balsamic vinegar?

Regular balsamic or apple cider vinegar works as a substitute.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, the salad still tastes great without cheese or you can use a dairy-free option.

How can I make the dressing creamier?

Blend in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a creamy texture.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely, rotisserie or grilled chicken leftovers work well.

Is it okay to serve this salad warm?

Yes, it can be served warm or cold, depending on preference.

What other herbs can I use?

Parsley, thyme, or cilantro can be used based on availability or taste preference.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like farfalle or rotini can be used in place of orzo.

Conclusion

Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad is a wholesome and flavorful dish that offers both comfort and nutrition. With fresh ingredients, a bright lemony dressing, and plenty of customization options, this salad is sure to become a go-to recipe for weekday meals, picnics, or gatherings.

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