Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad Recipe
Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad is a refreshing, easy-to-make pasta salad featuring juicy chicken, creamy basil pesto, and colorful vegetables. Ideal for healthy lunches, meal prep, summer gatherings, or a light dinner, this flavorful orzo salad delivers the perfect balance of freshness and richness. A must-try recipe for pesto lovers looking for a simple and satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
This Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad is the perfect blend of freshness, flavor, and convenience. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:
- Light, Fresh, and Flavor-Packed
Every bite delivers the perfect mix of tender chicken, aromatic basil pesto, and crisp veggies a refreshing and vibrant combination. - Quick and Easy to Make
Ready in just 25 minutes, this salad is ideal for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. - Perfect for Meal Prep
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it a great make-ahead lunch or dinner option. - A Complete, Balanced Meal
Packed with protein, pasta, and veggies, this salad offers the perfect balance of nutrition and flavor in one bowl. - Versatile and Customizable
You can easily add parmesan, switch veggies, use grilled chicken, or even make it vegetarian. It’s delicious any way you prepare it! - Ideal for Any Occasion
Whether it’s lunch, a picnic, a potluck, or a summer gathering, this chilled pasta salad is always a hit.
Main Salad Ingredients
These fresh, colorful, and flavorful ingredients come together to create a delicious and balanced Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad:
- 1. Orzo Pasta
- Small, rice-shaped pasta that gives the salad a soft and tender texture while absorbing the pesto perfectly.
- 2. Cooked Chicken
- Shredded or cubed grilled, boiled, or rotisserie chicken adds protein and makes the salad hearty and satisfying.
- 3. Cherry Tomatoes
- Sweet and juicy tomatoes that add freshness, flavor, and beautiful color.
- 4. Cucumber
- Crisp and cooling, it balances the richness of the pesto and adds a refreshing crunch.
- 5. Red Onion
- Thinly sliced for a mild, sharp flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 6. Black Olives
- Adds a savory, salty depth that pairs beautifully with pesto.
- 7. Sweet Corn (Optional)
- Adds natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- 8. Fresh Basil Leaves
- Boosts the aroma and complements the basil pesto for extra freshness.
- 9. Basil Pesto (for dressing)
- The star ingredient rich, herby, garlicky pesto that coats every bite with amazing flavor.
Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
A fresh and flavorful salad made with tender chicken, orzo pasta, crisp veggies, and creamy basil pesto. Light, quick, and perfect for lunch, picnics, or meal prep.
Course: Salad, Side Dish Cuisine: American Keyword: Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Servings: 8 Calories: 342 kcal per serving
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, chopped
- ½ cup sweet corn (optional)
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (optional)
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1–2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
How to Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad
- Cook the Orzo
Boil water with a pinch of salt.
Cook orzo for 7–9 minutes until tender but not mushy.
Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. - Prepare Chicken
Use grilled, boiled, or rotisserie chicken.
Cut into cubes or shred. - Chop Vegetables
Slice tomatoes, cucumber, onions, and olives.
Tear basil leaves roughly. - Make Pesto Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together basil pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. - Assemble Salad
In a large bowl, combine orzo, chicken, vegetables, and basil leaves.
Pour pesto dressing over the salad and toss gently. - Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to let flavors blend.
Serve chilled for the best taste.
Tips for Best Results
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Perfect as a cold summer pasta salad.
- Stays fresh in the fridge for 2 days great for meal prep.
- Add Greek yogurt to dressing for a creamier texture.
Nutrition Info: Each serving of Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad contains 342 kcal, 43 g carbohydrates, 28 g protein, 14 g fat, 45 mg cholesterol, 550 mg sodium, 450 mg potassium, 6 g fiber, and 5 g sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it perfect for meal prep or packed lunches.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly, but homemade pesto will give it a fresher, more vibrant flavor.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, beans, or tofu to keep it protein-rich.
Can I use whole wheat orzo?
Definitely. Whole wheat orzo increases fiber content and makes the salad even healthier.
Conclusion
This Chicken Pesto Orzo Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Packed with tender chicken, orzo pasta, crisp vegetables, and aromatic basil pesto, it’s a balanced and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and loved by all ages. Serve it chilled for a refreshing taste, and enjoy a healthy, protein-rich salad anytime!
