Description
This Chicken Orzo Pasta Salad is the perfect mix of tender, juicy chicken, mozzarella, fresh summer veggies, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 ounces orzo pasta
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing chicken)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 English or hothouse cucumber, diced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup golden balsamic vinegar
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 teaspoons grainy mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and brush with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Season both sides with your favorite seasoning blend.
- Air fry the chicken for 18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
- While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo to al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the ingredients for the lemon vinaigrette.
- In a large bowl, add about half of the dressing. Add the warm, cooked orzo and toss to coat. Let cool for 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, mozzarella pearls, and 3/4 of the fresh herbs to the orzo. Pour in the remaining dressing.
- Toss everything together to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed.
- Garnish with the remaining herbs before serving.
- ENJOY!
Notes
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Be sure to cook the orzo just until al dente to avoid mushy texture when mixed with the vinaigrette.
- Use Warm Orzo: Tossing the warm orzo with half the dressing helps it absorb flavor better before cooling.
- Let Chicken Rest: Rest the air-fried chicken for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Chill for Later: This salad is great served warm or chilled. Make ahead and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Fresh Herb Tip: Add most of the fresh herbs when mixing, but save a little for garnish to keep it vibrant and fresh-looking.
- Customize It: Feel free to add other vegetables like red bell pepper, red onion, or baby spinach.
- No Air Fryer?: Use this method for making juicy chicken.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Divide into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches.
- Leftover Dressing: If you’d like a lighter salad, start with less dressing and add more to taste before serving.
- Mozzarella Options: If you can’t find mozzarella pearls, cube a fresh mozzarella ball or use crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad, Lunch, Dinner, Meal Prep
- Method: Easy
- Cuisine: American