Greek Chicken Orzo Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines tender grilled chicken, refreshing vegetables, and orzo pasta, all tossed together with a tangy Greek dressing. This Mediterranean-inspired salad is perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as a side dish for barbecues and gatherings. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with protein, making it a great choice for meal prep or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional additional ingredients:
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
For the Greek dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- While the orzo cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Grill the chicken on medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or cook in a skillet until fully cooked through. Let the chicken cool for a few minutes, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chopped chicken, and any additional ingredients such as diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, crumbled feta, and red onion.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, minced garlic, and salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Pour the Greek dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve chilled and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for extra flavor and texture.
- Add Nuts: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for an added crunch.
- Swap Proteins: If you prefer, substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, lamb, or tofu for a different take on this salad.
- Make it Spicy: For a spicy kick, add some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad can be eaten cold, but if you prefer, you can gently reheat it in the microwave. Keep in mind that the orzo may absorb some of the dressing, so you may want to add a little more before serving.
10 FAQs About Greek Chicken Orzo Salad
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, Greek Chicken Orzo Salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together overnight, making it even tastier.
- What type of chicken can I use for this recipe? You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Can I use whole wheat orzo? Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great healthier alternative and will add a slightly nutty flavor to the salad.
- What other vegetables can I add? You can add any of your favorite Mediterranean vegetables such as bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or shredded carrots. Roasted vegetables would also work well in this salad.
- Can I make this salad vegetarian? Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu to make it a satisfying vegetarian dish.
- Is this salad gluten-free? Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn that will work perfectly in this recipe.
- How can I make the dressing creamier? To make a creamy dressing, add a couple of tablespoons of Greek yogurt to the dressing mixture. It will give the dressing a richer texture.
- Can I add fruit to this salad? Yes, fruits like pomegranate seeds, figs, or even sliced strawberries can add a refreshing contrast to the savory ingredients.
- Can I use a store-bought dressing? While homemade dressing adds great flavor, you can use a store-bought Greek or vinaigrette dressing in a pinch. Just make sure to choose one with good quality ingredients.
- Can I serve this salad warm? Greek Chicken Orzo Salad is typically served chilled, but you can also serve it at room temperature if you prefer.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Orzo Salad is a light, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. With its vibrant Mediterranean flavors and satisfying textures, this salad will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe in your collection. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it as a simple, nutritious meal, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.