Salads

Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad

Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This vibrant salad combines tender orzo pasta with juicy chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all brought together by the fragrant embrace of pesto. Served cold, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also makes for an ideal summertime meal or a light lunch. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that’s sure to please your family and friends!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 370
Protein: 29g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 480mg

Why Make This Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad

This Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad is not only quick and easy to make but also packed with flavor. The pesto sauce brings a burst of freshness and herbaceous notes, while the combination of chicken and cheese provides a satisfying protein boost. It’s a versatile dish that works well as a main course or as a side, making it a great addition to potlucks, barbecues, and even weeknight dinners.

How to Make Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad

Ingredients:

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved
1/4 cup pesto sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Cooking the Orzo

Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water. This process will cool the pasta down and prevent it from becoming sticky.

Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. This creates a colorful and inviting mixture.

Step 3: Adding Flavor with Pesto

Add pesto sauce and olive oil, then mix until well combined. Make sure everything is evenly coated in the flavorful pesto.

Step 4: Seasoning and Garnishing

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your salad, feeling the freshness in every bite!

How to Serve Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad

Serve this Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad chilled or at room temperature, making it an excellent option for picnics or barbecues. You can serve it on a large platter or in individual bowls. For extra flair, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

How to Store Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Note that the salad may become slightly drier as it sits, so feel free to add a splash of olive oil or additional pesto when serving leftovers.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad

For added texture, consider roasting the cherry tomatoes before mixing them in for a deeper flavor.
If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with any small pasta, like pastina or quinoa.
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
Toasted nuts or seeds can be a great addition for crunch.

Delicious Variations

Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy touch.
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus, peas, or spinach for seasonal freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pesto? Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and still provides wonderful flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad keeps well in the refrigerator and can be made a day in advance.
What type of chicken should I use? Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds flavor without much effort.
Is this salad gluten-free? No, but you can substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables? Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or whatever veggies you love.

Conclusion

Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad is a delightful dish that’s bursting with flavors and textures. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for summer days when you crave something light yet satisfying. Give this recipe a try, and impress your loved ones with a colorful and tasty salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! Enjoy every bite!