Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad With Honey Mustard Bacon Dressing

This vibrant and hearty salad combines the refreshing flavors of grilled lemon herb chicken with the creaminess of ripe avocados, the chewiness of orzo, and the crunch of fresh vegetables. The dish is elevated with a rich honey mustard bacon dressing that adds a sweet and savory note, making it perfect for a satisfying lunch or a light dinner. The mix of textures and flavors ensures that every bite is a delightful experience, while the orzo and chicken provide enough substance to keep you full and energized. This salad is ideal for warm weather, offering a perfect balance of fresh ingredients and a tangy, smoky dressing.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

• 1 cup orzo, cooked and cooled
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

For the Honey Mustard Bacon Dressing:

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, spinach or mixed greens, and basil.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth. Stir in the crumbled bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Salad: Add the sliced grilled chicken to the salad and drizzle with the honey mustard bacon dressing. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve: Serve the salad immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad!