Greek Chicken Orzo Salad

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This Greek Chicken Orzo Salad is like summer in a bowl—a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish that bursts with fresh flavor and texture. It’s filled with juicy grilled chicken, crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta, all tossed with tender orzo pasta and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as a make-ahead meal for busy weekdays, this salad is guaranteed to brighten your table.

The combination of creamy feta, briny olives, and fragrant basil adds richness and depth, making every bite satisfying and crave-worthy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: serve it chilled or at room temperature, make it meatless, or load it up with extra veggies. It’s a wholesome, easy-to-make meal that packs a punch of flavor and feels effortlessly elegant.

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What Kind of Orzo Should I Use?

Look for traditional orzo made with semolina flour for that classic tender-chewy bite. Whole wheat orzo works well too if you’re aiming for more fiber. Be sure not to overcook—al dente is key so the pasta holds up in the dressing without getting mushy.

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Ingredients for the Greek Chicken Orzo Salad

• Orzo Pasta – The base of the salad; light and quick-cooking, perfect for soaking up flavors.
• Cooked Chicken Breast – Adds satisfying protein and heartiness; grilled or rotisserie works best.
• Cucumber – Crisp and refreshing, bringing a clean crunch.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, they balance the tang of the dressing and feta.
• Kalamata Olives – Salty and bold, a true Greek flavor staple.
• Feta Cheese – Crumbly and creamy with just the right amount of tang.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley – Adds a herby, fresh brightness to finish the dish.
• Lemon Juice & Olive Oil – The classic Greek dressing base; zippy and smooth.
• Garlic & Dried Oregano – Infuses flavor into the dressing and the chicken.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances and balances all the ingredients.

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How To Make the Greek Chicken Orzo Salad

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down for the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If using fresh chicken breasts, season them with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Grill or sear in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let rest, then slice or shred into bite-sized pieces. You can also use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables

While the orzo cooks and the chicken rests, dice cucumbers, halve cherry tomatoes, and chop fresh basil or parsley. Pit and slice Kalamata olives if needed.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust to your liking—it should be zesty and vibrant.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, chopped chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and herbs. Drizzle the dressing over everything and gently toss to coat. Add the crumbled feta cheese last and give it one final gentle mix.

Step 6: Chill or Serve

You can serve this salad immediately at room temperature or refrigerate it for 30-60 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Give it a quick stir before serving and garnish with extra herbs or a wedge of lemon if desired.

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Serving and Storing Greek Chicken Orzo Salad

This salad is a star at picnics, potlucks, or as a meal-prep hero during the week. Serve it chilled straight from the fridge or at room temperature. It’s great on its own, or as a side with grilled meats or warm pita.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen with time, so it often tastes even better the next day. If it seems dry after chilling, just stir in a little extra lemon juice and olive oil to refresh it.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What protein can I use instead of chicken?

Try grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or even tuna for a Mediterranean twist. This salad is flexible!

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, skip the feta or substitute with a dairy-free feta-style cheese for a similar salty bite.

How do I keep the orzo from sticking together?

Rinsing the cooked orzo under cold water after boiling helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Traditional orzo contains wheat, but you can substitute with gluten-free orzo or even rice-shaped pasta alternatives.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Add fresh herbs and a splash of lemon before serving for best flavor.

What vegetables go well in this salad?

Bell peppers, red onions, artichoke hearts, or even baby spinach are great additions for more color and crunch.

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Want More Salad Ideas with a Mediterranean Twist?

If you love this Greek Chicken Orzo Salad, check out these other vibrant recipes:

• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for a slow-cooked, flavorful twist.
• Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce for another fresh and zesty meal.
• One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken with Potatoes & Green Beans for an easy, well-rounded dinner.
• Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff if you’re craving creamy comfort with a savory punch.
• Garlic Chicken Lo Mein for an east-meets-west flavor fusion.

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