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Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad

This vibrant salad combines tender orzo pasta with juicy grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a delicious basil pesto. It's an easy meal prep option that's nutritious and satisfying.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups dry orzo (about 3 cups cooked)
  • 2 pieces grilled chicken breasts, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup arugula
  • 0.5 cup basil pesto
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 piece lemon (juice and zest)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook orzo in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil.
  2. Chop grilled chicken, halve cherry tomatoes, zest, and juice the lemon.
Mixing
  1. In a large bowl, combine orzo, chicken, tomatoes, arugula, and basil pesto.
  2. Toss everything until evenly coated and let sit for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.
  3. Add lemon juice, zest, Parmesan cheese, and adjust salt as needed.
  4. Toss again and serve.

Notes

Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad can be customized with your favorite veggies. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Optionally, chill the salad before serving for enhanced flavors.