Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and perfectly balanced textures, this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. Picture tender, juicy grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and herbs, nestled atop a bed of buttery orzo pasta, creamy avocado, and vibrant cherry tomatoes—all brought together with a dreamy honey mustard bacon dressing. This salad is a celebration of bright, bold tastes and satisfying heartiness that’s just as perfect for a weeknight dinner as it is for impressing friends at your next gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating that fresh, comforting vibe we all crave. From the orzo that adds a delightful bite, to the fresh herbs, crispy bacon, and luscious avocado, each component is simple yet essential—working in harmony to ensure every forkful sings with flavor and texture.
- 2 cups orzo pasta: Offers a light and tender base that soaks up the dressing beautifully.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provides lean protein that becomes juicy and flavorful after grilling.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: The perfect fat to keep the chicken moist and enhance the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings in that classic herbaceous note that complements lemon beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers quiet depth and savory warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring every flavor into sharp focus.
- 1 avocado diced: Adds creamy texture and richness to the salad.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved: Bursts with juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped: Offers a crisp bite with a subtle sharpness.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped: Infuses freshness and a lovely green hue.
- 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled: Brings irresistible smokiness and crunch to the dressing.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the honey mustard dressing.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tang of the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Gives a tangy, slightly spicy kick.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Amplifies the dressing’s bright, zesty flavor.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Begin by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. This small pasta cooks quickly and forms the hearty, tender base of your salad. Once done, drain the pasta and let it cool completely. Cooling is key here to keep your salad fresh and prevent sogginess later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade for the Chicken
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple yet vibrant marinade is where the magic begins for your chicken, infusing it with that unmistakable lemon herb brilliance that defines this recipe.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, promising juicy, tender, and fragrant chicken that’s every bit as delicious as it sounds.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Heat your grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a perfect char and thoroughly cooked chicken that’s still moist inside. Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing—this step helps retain its juices for maximum tenderness.
Step 5: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the cooled orzo, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped parsley. This combination is the heart of the salad, mixing creamy, bright, and crisp elements for a fantastic flavor and texture balance.
Step 6: Make the Dressing
In another bowl, whisk together the crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. This honey mustard bacon dressing is the star player that brings smoky, creamy, sweet, and tangy notes all at once, elevating every bite to something unforgettable.
Step 7: Dress and Toss the Salad
Drizzle the honey mustard bacon dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring every ingredient is coated with that luscious dressing.
Step 8: Serve with Sliced Grilled Chicken
Top your beautifully dressed salad with the sliced grilled chicken, arrange it beautifully on a platter or individual bowls, and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels fresh, fulfilling, and downright delightful.
How to Serve Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your presentation and flavor. Sprinkle some extra chopped parsley or a few lemon zest curls on top for added brightness and visual appeal. A few additional bacon crumbles can add that irresistible, crispy crunch boost.
Side Dishes
This salad is delightfully filling on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or grilled seasonal veggies. A crusty bread or warm pita can also complement the textures and flavors nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad Recipe in individual mason jars or pretty bowls for a charming, casual vibe. Alternatively, lay the salad out on a large serving platter, artistically arrange the chicken slices on top, and drizzle extra dressing for a colorful centerpiece that invites sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this salad keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the avocado fresh, give the salad a gentle toss before storing and add a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Freezing
Because of the fresh avocado and dressing, this salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. The avocado’s texture and the integrity of the dressing will suffer if frozen.
Reheating
If you want to reheat the leftover chicken separately, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying it out. The salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so simply enjoy the orzo salad chilled.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is traditional here because of its petite size and texture, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells would work nicely and soak up the dressing well.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and bacon, and consider adding grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
What can I use if I don’t have a grill?
No grill? No problem! You can cook the chicken on a grill pan, stovetop skillet, or even bake it in the oven. Just be sure to achieve a nice sear and cook it through.
How ripe should the avocado be?
Choose an avocado that is slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. This ensures creamy texture without overpowering the salad or getting mushy when mixed.
Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey mustard bacon dressing up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just give it a good stir before tossing with the salad.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—fresh, vibrant, comforting, and packed with flavor that never gets old. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a favorite you turn to again and again.
Print
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish combining tender grilled chicken marinated in lemon and herbs with creamy avocado, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a flavorful honey mustard bacon dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or light dinner, this salad offers a wonderful balance of textures and tastes, featuring wholesome orzo pasta and a zesty homemade dressing.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool completely before adding to the salad.
- Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Grill Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly.
- Assemble Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh parsley. Gently toss to blend the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix the crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper thoroughly to create a rich and tangy honey mustard bacon dressing.
- Toss Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the orzo and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until everything is well-coated and flavors meld together.
- Serve: Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top of the dressed salad and serve immediately for a fresh and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for longer, up to 2 hours, for more intense flavor.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- To make the dish gluten free, substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta alternative.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and bacon and add chickpeas or grilled tofu instead.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Add avocado fresh when serving to avoid browning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
