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Fresh Lemon Herb Orzo Salad with Grilled Chicken and Cherry Tomatoes

fresh lemon herb orzo salad - featured image
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A quick and easy lemon herb orzo salad featuring grilled chicken and cherry tomatoes, perfect for a healthy and satisfying lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) orzo pasta
  • 2 medium grilled chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts

Instructions

  1. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup (170g) of orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. While the orzo cooks, heat your grill pan over medium-high heat. Season 2 medium chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill about 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through and juices run clear. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
  3. Halve 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, finely dice 2 tablespoons of red onion (if using), and mince 1 clove of garlic. Chop 2 tablespoons each of fresh parsley and basil.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons), 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, herbs, and sliced grilled chicken to the bowl with orzo. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  6. Optional: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts on top before serving.

Notes

Do not overdress the salad to avoid sogginess. Letting the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving helps flavors meld. For gluten-free, substitute orzo with quinoa or gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free, omit feta or use plant-based alternatives. Grilled chicken can be substituted with shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon herb orzo salad, grilled chicken salad, healthy lunch, pasta salad, cherry tomatoes, easy recipe

Find it online: https://savoryrecipes.info/fresh-lemon-herb-orzo-salad-recipe-with-grilled-chicken-and-cherry-tomatoes-easy-healthy-lunch-idea/