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Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken

Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken for a Fresh Summer Boost

A delightful Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken that’s perfect for summer, combining tender pasta, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Can substitute with other small pasta
  • 2 pieces Mini Cucumbers Or substitute with ½ English Cucumber
  • 1 cup Little Tomatoes (Grape/Cherry) Can be substituted with diced bell peppers
  • 1 small Red Onion Can be replaced with green onion for milder flavor
  • 2 cups Arugula Optional, add for freshness
  • 2 cups Cooked Rotisserie Chicken Grilled chicken or turkey can also work
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Feta can be used as an alternative
  • ¼ cup Fresh Basil Can replace with parsley if needed
For the Dressing
  • cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can be substituted
  • ¼ cup Lemon Juice Do not substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Do not substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Maple syrup is a vegan alternative
  • 1 clove Garlic Can be omitted for a milder flavor
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spoon
  • tongs

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Step 1: Cook the Orzo - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cool water.
  2. Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables - In a mixing bowl, combine chopped mini cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. If using arugula, add it now.
  3. Step 3: Mix in the Chicken and Cheese - Add the cooked chicken, grated Parmesan, and basil to the bowl. Fold gently to combine.
  4. Step 4: Whisk Together the Dressing - In a separate bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, minced garlic, and salt & pepper until blended.
  5. Step 5: Toss Salad with Dressing - Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Step 6: Serve or Store - Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Do not mix in arugula until serving if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, cook orzo al dente and rinse under cold water. Incorporate arugula just before serving for maximum freshness.

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