ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Orzo Salad
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Honey Mustard Dressing:
- 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tbsp Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of garlic powder (optional)
Instructions for Creamy Chicken Orzo Salad
- Cook the chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with a little salt, pepper, and olive oil. Cook them on medium heat in a skillet or grill pan for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. You can also shred the chicken if you prefer a more rustic texture.
- Cook the orzo pasta:
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8–10 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. You want the orzo to be chilled for this salad, so place it in the fridge for a few minutes if necessary.
- Prepare the veggies:
- While the chicken and pasta are cooling, prepare the veggies. Dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and halve the cherry tomatoes. If you’re using spinach or other greens, tear them into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the honey mustard dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Greek yogurt, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper. The yogurt adds creaminess while the honey gives the dressing a lovely sweetness that balances out the tanginess of the mustard.
- Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add more honey for sweetness or extra mustard for a tangier kick.
- Assemble the salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo pasta, diced veggies, and sliced chicken. Toss everything gently to mix.
- Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the salad and toss again until everything is well-coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s a refreshing meal that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and it’s also great for meal prep. The flavors only get better as the salad sits, so it’s ideal for making ahead of time!
Variations and Tips
- Add more protein: If you want to make this salad even heartier, consider adding cooked shrimp, grilled steak, or chickpeas.
- Make it creamy: If you love an extra-creamy texture, you can increase the Greek yogurt in the dressing or add a spoonful of sour cream for an extra creamy base.
- Customize the veggies: This salad is versatile, so feel free to swap in other vegetables like red onions, roasted sweet potatoes, or even shredded carrots.
- Nuts and seeds: For a bit of crunch, toss in some toasted nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or seeds (like sunflower or pumpkin seeds).
A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion
The Creamy Chicken Orzo Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing brings together so many wonderful flavors and textures in one bowl. It’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet. The honey mustard dressing adds a flavorful zing that ties everything together, and the chicken and orzo make it a filling yet light meal.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a light lunch with friends, or simply craving a salad that’s both satisfying and healthy, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting salad that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
So, the next time you’re looking for something refreshing yet indulgent, whip up this creamy chicken orzo salad—you won’t be disappointed!
