Chicken orzo salad is light, fresh, and packed with Mediterranean vibes. The orzo makes it feel a little fancy, and the chicken keeps it hearty. It’s great for a make-ahead lunch or easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients List
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups baby spinach
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-step Instructions
Cook the Orzo
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken
While the orzo is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Heat olive oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing into strips.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and crumbled feta. Add sliced grilled chicken on top.
Dress the Salad
Drizzle olive oil over the salad and squeeze a lemon wedge for freshness. Toss gently to combine all ingredients well.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the salad for garnish. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Ways to Improve It
1. Use fresh herbs like basil or mint for added flavor.
2. Add a splash of balsamic glaze for a sweet-tangy note.
3. Incorporate toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch.
4. Marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic before grilling for more depth.
5. Include roasted red peppers or olives for additional layers of taste.
Side Dishes to Serve
Pair this chicken orzo salad with warm crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any dressing left in the bowl. A chilled glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully. Alternatively, serve with a light vegetable soup for a more filling meal.
Substitutions
1. Substitute quinoa or couscous for orzo if preferred.
2. Replace feta cheese with goat cheese for a creamier texture.
3. Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier green option.
4. Swap cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for an intense flavor.
Recipe Variations
1. Add grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
2. Mix in avocado slices for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
3. Incorporate roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for added nutrition.
4. Spice it up with red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce if you prefer some heat.
5. Make it vegan by omitting chicken and feta, and adding chickpeas as protein source.
