Hello, food lovers! If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant, and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this Greek Chicken Orzo Salad will hit the spot. Packed with Mediterranean flavors, tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing, it’s a meal you’ll love sharing with family and friends—or keeping all to yourself!
Introduction
This Greek Chicken Orzo Salad is the epitome of Mediterranean cuisine—light, healthy, and bursting with bold flavors. Combining juicy, seasoned chicken with orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy homemade dressing, this salad is perfect as a main dish or side. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a picnic, or meal prep, it delivers a satisfying balance of protein, carbs, and vibrant veggies. Let’s explore how you can bring this delightful dish to your table.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 English cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious. The feta cheese and Kalamata olives give it the signature Greek flavor, while the fresh herbs and lemon juice in the dressing add brightness and zest.
How to Make Greek Chicken Orzo Salad
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Greek Chicken Orzo Salad:
Step 1: Cook the Orzo Pasta. Begin by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside to cool completely. Toss with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent it from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo pasta, sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, halved Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Make the Dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, chopped dill, minced garlic, and 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil until well combined.
Step 6: Dress the Salad. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve or Chill. Serve the salad immediately for a fresh, warm meal, or chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours for a cooler, more refreshing option. Either way, the flavors will shine!
Helpful Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use high-quality Kalamata olives and feta cheese for the most authentic Greek taste.
- If you’re making the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
Cooking Tips
- Cook the Orzo Perfectly: To avoid mushy pasta, cook the orzo al dente as directed on the package. Rinse it under cold water to cool it quickly and stop the cooking process.
- Ensure Juicy Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
- Customize the Salad: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or baby spinach for more variety.
Serving Suggestions
This Greek Chicken Orzo Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled lamb chops, garlic bread, or a bowl of roasted vegetable soup for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal. For beverages, a chilled white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon complements the fresh flavors perfectly.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits of this Greek Chicken Orzo Salad:
- High in protein from the chicken and orzo, perfect for muscle repair and energy.
- Packed with antioxidants and vitamins from fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Healthy fats from olive oil and feta cheese for long-lasting satiety.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 20%
- Calcium: 10%
- Iron: 12%
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat or Serve Cold: You can enjoy the salad cold straight from the fridge, or gently reheat it in the microwave if you prefer it warm.
Repurpose Leftovers: Use leftover salad as a filling for pita bread, or toss it with additional greens for a heartier salad the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta varieties like farfalle, penne, or couscous for a similar texture.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Dried herbs can be used in place of fresh ones, but use them sparingly as they are more concentrated.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add chickpeas or grilled halloumi for protein.
Can I use store-bought dressing? While the homemade dressing adds authentic flavor, a high-quality Greek vinaigrette can work in a pinch.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this recipe, here are some other Mediterranean-inspired dishes you might love:
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
- Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
- Creamy Tzatziki Sauce
- Greek-Style Spinach Pie
Conclusion
This Greek Chicken Orzo Salad is a delightful combination of fresh, zesty flavors and hearty ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, this salad is sure to impress your guests or add a touch of Mediterranean flair to your meal prep routine. Try it out today and experience the vibrant flavors of Greece in your own kitchen. Enjoy every bite!