Pesto Chicken Avocado Orzo: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Pesto Chicken Avocado Orzo: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breast, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, creamy avocado, and the vibrant, herbaceous burst of pesto, all harmonizing in a single, delightful dish. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

While the exact origins of this particular combination are relatively modern, it draws inspiration from classic Italian flavors and the ever-popular avocado, a staple in many cultures. Pesto, with its roots in Genoa, Italy, has been a beloved sauce for centuries, traditionally made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Its bright, fresh taste elevates any dish it graces.

What makes pesto chicken avocado orzo so irresistible? It’s the symphony of textures and flavors. The creamy avocado contrasts beautifully with the al dente orzo and the savory chicken. The pesto adds a zesty, aromatic dimension that awakens the senses. Beyond the taste, this dish is incredibly convenient. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends and family. It’s healthy, satisfying, and undeniably delicious. I know you’ll love it!

Ingredients:

• For the Pesto Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup prepared pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• For the Orzo:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Avocado & Assembly:
• 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Pesto Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor before cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is highly recommended to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Add the Pesto: Once the chicken is cooked through, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the pesto, ensuring that all the chicken pieces are coated evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the pesto to warm through and meld with the chicken. Be careful not to overcook the chicken at this stage, as it can become dry.
4. Set Aside: Remove the skillet from the heat and set the pesto chicken aside. Keep it warm while you prepare the orzo. You can cover the skillet with a lid to help retain the heat.

Cooking the Orzo

1. Sauté the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo pasta and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the orzo is lightly toasted. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the orzo and helps prevent it from becoming mushy during cooking.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, add 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Fluff the Orzo: Once the orzo is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and fluff it with a fork. This helps to separate the grains and prevent them from clumping together.

Preparing the Avocado Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados, finely diced red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, and lime juice. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine. The lime juice helps to prevent the avocado from browning and adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the mixture.
2. Season to Taste: Season the avocado mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference.

Assembling the Pesto Chicken Avocado Orzo

1. Combine Orzo and Chicken: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the pesto chicken. Gently stir to combine, ensuring that the orzo is evenly coated with the pesto sauce.
2. Add Avocado Mixture: Add the avocado mixture to the orzo and chicken mixture. Gently fold it in, being careful not to mash the avocado. You want to maintain the texture of the avocado in the final dish.
3. Serve: Serve the pesto chicken avocado orzo immediately. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Tips and Variations

• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for a vegetarian version.
• Add a Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as basil, parsley, or oregano in the avocado mixture.
• Make it Ahead: The orzo and pesto chicken can be prepared ahead of time and stored separately in the refrigerator. Combine them with the avocado mixture just before serving.
• Add Some Greens: Stir in some baby spinach or arugula for added nutrients and flavor.
• Lemon Juice Alternative: If you don’t have lime juice, lemon juice works as a great substitute.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken while searing for an extra layer of heat.
• Cheese Options: If you’re not a fan of feta, try parmesan or goat cheese.
• Nut Allergy Alternative: If you have a nut allergy and are using store-bought pesto, make sure it’s nut-free or make your own pesto without pine nuts.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The avocado may brown slightly, but it will still be safe to eat.

Reheating Instructions

Reheat the pesto chicken avocado orzo in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. If reheating in the microwave, add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. If reheating in a skillet, stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

This pesto chicken avocado orzo is delicious on its own as a main course, but it also pairs well with a side salad or grilled vegetables. It’s also a great option for meal prepping and taking to work for lunch.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per Serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 550-650
• Protein: 35-45g
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Conclusion:

This Pesto Chicken Avocado Orzo isn’t just another pasta salad; it’s a vibrant, flavorful experience that deserves a spot in your regular rotation. The creamy avocado, bright pesto, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked orzo come together in a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s quick enough for a weeknight meal, impressive enough for a weekend gathering, and healthy enough to feel good about eating. Think of it: the nutty aroma of pesto mingling with the richness of avocado, all balanced by the satisfying chew of orzo and the protein punch of chicken. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, offering a delightful combination of healthy fats, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Serving Suggestions and Variations: This dish is fantastic served chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or meal prepping. For a heartier meal, consider adding some grilled shrimp or salmon alongside the chicken. If you’re vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add some grilled halloumi cheese or chickpeas for added protein. Want to kick up the flavor even more? Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or Kalamata olives would also be delicious additions, adding a Mediterranean flair. You could even swap out the orzo for another small pasta shape like ditalini or farfalle, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. For a lighter version, use a low-fat pesto and Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also increase the amount of avocado and reduce the amount of pesto to adjust the flavor profile to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Why You Should Try This Recipe: I’ve made this pesto chicken avocado orzo countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize to suit different tastes and dietary needs. The best part is that it’s so simple to make, even on busy weeknights. You can even prep the ingredients ahead of time to make the assembly process even faster. Imagine coming home after a long day and having a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal ready in minutes. That’s the magic of this recipe! It’s a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want to eat well. I’m confident that you’ll love this Pesto Chicken Avocado Orzo as much as I do. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Now it’s your turn! I encourage you to give this recipe a try. I’ve poured my heart into creating a dish that’s both delicious and easy to make, and I’m excited for you to experience it for yourself. Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how you made it your own. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. So, grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I can’t wait to hear about your Pesto Chicken Avocado Orzo adventures! Happy cooking! Print