Description
A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired salad featuring smoky grilled chicken, tender orzo pasta, creamy avocado, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon herb dressing. Perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 medium ripe avocados
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium English cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 10 minutes, then slice or cube.
- 2. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook orzo according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss with a drizzle of olive oil.
- 3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- 4. In a large bowl, combine cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Pour dressing over and toss well to coat.
- 5. Add sliced grilled chicken and chopped basil, folding gently to combine.
- 6. Just before serving, add diced avocado and crumbled feta cheese, folding gently to keep them intact.
- 7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Notes
Store without avocado for best results; add fresh avocado to each serving. Can be served cold, at room temperature, or slightly warm. Best consumed within 3-4 days when refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g