Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad is the perfect dish for a busy day or a quick meal prep. This vibrant salad combines tender orzo pasta with juicy grilled chicken and fresh vegetables, all tossed together in a delicious basil pesto. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy healthy ingredients in a single bowl.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 350mg
Why Make Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. The combination of orzo and chicken provides a hearty source of protein and carbs, making it a filling meal. With arugula and cherry tomatoes, you’ll get an extra boost of vitamins and minerals. Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
How to Make Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad Step by Step
Ingredients
1½ cups dry orzo (about 3 cups cooked)
2 grilled chicken breasts, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup arugula
½ cup basil pesto
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
Directions
Cook orzo in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil. Chop grilled chicken, halve cherry tomatoes, zest, and juice the lemon. In a large bowl, combine orzo, chicken, tomatoes, arugula, and pesto. Toss everything until evenly coated. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to meld flavors. Add lemon juice, zest, Parmesan, and adjust salt as needed. Toss again and serve.
How to Serve Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a light vinaigrette salad or garlic bread for a comforting dinner. This salad also makes a great addition to lunchboxes, ensuring you have a fresh and tasty meal ready to go.
How to Store Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
If you have leftovers, store Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply toss it in a bowl to refresh the flavors. If you wish to freezer it, consider omitting the arugula and adding it fresh when serving, as freezing can alter its texture.
Expert Tips for Cooking Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
- Make sure to cook the orzo till al dente for the best texture in the salad.
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- Use homemade basil pesto for a fresher taste, or store-bought for convenience.
- Chill the salad for a few hours before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Adjust the salt and pesto to your preference for a personalized touch.
Delicious Variations of Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
For a spicy version, add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the pesto. If you want an herby twist, mix in fresh herbs like dill or cilantro. For a bright, citrus flavor, consider adding orange or lime juice. You can also easily turn this salad vegetarian by substituting grilled chicken with roasted chickpeas or extra veggies.
Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad is a flavorful, easy dish that anyone can whip up. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this salad offers a satisfying blend of tastes and textures. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious simplicity it brings to your table!
Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook orzo in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil.
- Chop grilled chicken, halve cherry tomatoes, zest, and juice the lemon.
- In a large bowl, combine orzo, chicken, tomatoes, arugula, and basil pesto.
- Toss everything until evenly coated and let sit for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.
- Add lemon juice, zest, Parmesan cheese, and adjust salt as needed.
- Toss again and serve.
