Description
A vibrant and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad topped with a sweet mustard bacon dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat the grill to medium-high. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and parsley. Toss gently.
- For the dressing, heat a small saucepan over medium heat and mix honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and the remaining olive oil. Stir until warmed and well blended. Fold in crumbled bacon.
- Layer sliced grilled chicken over the orzo salad and drizzle with the sweet mustard bacon dressing. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer enhances the flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg