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Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken

Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken for a Bright Summer Refresh

This Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken is a quick, refreshing dish perfect for summer meals, bursting with vibrant flavors and customizable ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 270

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo cooked al dente
  • 1-2 pieces Mini Cucumbers chopped
  • 1-2 cups Little Tomatoes (Grape/Cherry) halved
  • 0.25 cup Red Onion thinly sliced
  • 1-2 cups Arugula optional
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken (Rotisserie) shredded
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
For the Dressing
  • 0.25 cup Olive Oil extra virgin for robust flavor
  • 1 pieces Lemon Juice and Zest can substitute with lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon Honey or agave syrup for vegan option
  • 1 clove Garlic minced

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • jar or bowl for dressing
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the orzo by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of orzo and cook for about 9-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Prepare the vegetables by chopping mini cucumbers, halving the little tomatoes, and slicing red onion. Soak the onion in cold water if too strong.
  3. Combine salad ingredients by adding cooled orzo to vegetables, arugula, shredded chicken, and parmesan cheese. Toss gently to mix.
  4. Whisk the dressing combining olive oil, lemon juice and zest, honey, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Dress the salad by pouring the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until well combined.
  6. Serve chilled or at room temperature, adding greens just before serving to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 270kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Cook orzo al dente to prevent mushiness. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance freshness. Store dressing separately if prepping in advance.

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