Shelly's Recipe

ORZO CHICKEN SALAD

Category: Pasta Salads

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tsp salt, pepper and garlic powder
1 (16 oz) pkg orzo, cooked according to package directions, drained but not rinsed
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
2 tsp minced garlic
1 1/2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
12 medium green onions, chopped
2 cups diced Roma tomatoes
1/2 cup shredded basil and sliced black olives
1 sweet red bell pepper, chopped

Lemon Greek Dressing
1/2 cup olive oil
4 tbsp mayonnaise
3 tbsp lemon juice
3 tbsp Greek seasoning

Mixed salad greens
Tomato wedges
Basil leaves

Sprinkle chicken with seasonings. Coat skillet with some olive oil and cook meat 8 minutes on each side. Remove and cut into bite-size pieces; set aside.

In a saute pan, place 1 tbsp olive oil over medium high heat; add walnuts and cook until golden brown; remove from pan. In same pan, place remaining 2 tbsp olive oil, add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms begin to change color; remove and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients for salad. Toss with dressing. Arrange mixed greens on serving plate and add chicken mixture; garnish with tomato wedges and whole basil leaves. Serves 4

Dressing: Combine ingredients and whisk until smooth.