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Grilled Chicken Orzo Salad with Avocado
Youssef Hb

Grilled Chicken Orzo Salad with Avocado

A refreshing and flavorful salad with smoky grilled chicken, nutty orzo, tender avocado, and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing that brings it all together. Perfect as a weeknight meal or picnic dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: Modern
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz orzo (uncooked)
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1½ cups packed fresh cilantro (or substitute with parsley)
  • 2 avocados, peeled and cubed
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

  1. Preheat grill to high heat (450°F or higher). Let the grill heat for 10 minutes.
  2. Boil salted water in a pot. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente (10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. Pat chicken breasts dry. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Grill chicken for 5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  5. In a bowl, whisk lime juice, honey, minced garlic, half the cilantro (or parsley), and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Toss cooked orzo with half the dressing. Add chopped chicken, red onion, and remaining cilantro. Gently stir in avocado cubes.
  7. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve at room temperature or chilled, drizzling with remaining dressing.

Notes

For a substitution, replace chicken with pre-marinated tofu for a meat-free option.
For firmer orzo, cook it 1 minute less than the package instructions.
Make the dressing ahead of time but reserve the avocado until the last step to prevent browning.