Description
Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. This delightful salad combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fresh vegetables, creating a flavor-packed meal ready in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or looking for a nutritious option for your family, this dish is versatile enough to serve as a main course or side. It’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies and proteins, ensuring everyone at the table leaves satisfied.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 mini cucumbers (chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (quartered)
- 2 tablespoons red onion (chopped)
- 2 cups cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil (sliced thin)
- 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice + zest of 1 lemon
- 2.5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the orzo in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and cool.
- Chop cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and basil. Combine with the cooled orzo in a large bowl.
- In a jar or bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients until well mixed.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, tossing until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor. Allow the salad to sit for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Customize by adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or olives.