Ingredients
Scale
- 4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup dry Orzo pasta
- 2 ripe Avocados, diced
- 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh Lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (plus extra for seasoning)
- 1 pint Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Parsley
Instructions
- Step 1: Season chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from heat and allow to rest for five minutes before dicing into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 2: Cook the orzo pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain immediately and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process; transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
- Step 3: Prepare the dressing by whisking together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of Kosher salt in a small bowl until emulsified.
- Step 4: Add the diced grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh parsley to the bowl with the cooled orzo. Pour the lemon-oil dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to ensure everything is lightly coated.
- Step 5: Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado. Toss very lightly once more and serve the salad chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For best results, keep the salad base (chicken, orzo, tomatoes) separate from the avocado and only mix in the diced avocado right before serving or storing individual portions for immediate consumption.
- Do not attempt to reheat the assembled salad; instead, if serving chilled leftovers, allow the salad to rest on the counter for 10-15 minutes before eating to enhance the dressing's flavor profile.
- Elevate the texture and flavor by sprinkling the salad with a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts just before serving for a welcome crunch against the tender chicken and creamy avocado.
- To ensure your orzo doesn't stick together, always rinse the cooked pasta very thoroughly with cold water immediately after draining to remove excess starch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American