Quick and Flavorful Chicken Orzo Salad

You can whip up this chicken orzo salad in less than 30 minutes! Especially if you are using precooked or leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s packed with perfectly cooked orzo, juicy tomatoes, sweet red bell pepper and a zesty refreshing lemon vinaigrette.

Chicken orzo saladPhoto byThyme of Season

Chicken orzo salad is an excellent choice for those looking to make a simple, yet flavorful meal. This versatile dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish, making it a great addition to any meal plan. With the combination of tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and pasta, this salad is so easy to make.

What is Orzo?

Is it pasta or is it rice? People mistakenly think that orzo is a type of rice, but it’s actually a short pasta!

It’s slightly chewy in texture and can be doctored up so many different ways. Because orzo is a kind of pasta, it’s not gluten-free, so if that’s something you’re concerned about make sure to buy a certified gluten-free orzo.

Ingredients Needed

To prepare a delicious chicken orzo salad, gather the following ingredients:

Salad:

• 1 cup of orzo pasta
• 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is ideal)
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2-3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped

Dressing:

Lemon Vinaigrette (see link in instructions)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey, or to taste
• ½ salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon pepper, or to taste

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, parsley, and basil.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper or use our Refreshing Lemon Vinaigrette. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

4. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

RECIPE NOTES: This salad can be stored airtight in the refrigerator for up to three days, although the vegetables may release water over time; it can be served warm, chilled, or at room temperature.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Orzo Salad

Chicken orzo salad is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. The combination of lean protein from the chicken and fibers from the vegetables makes it a well-balanced meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, such as adding olives or substituting the feta with goat cheese.

Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, chicken orzo salad is a perfect choice. It's easy and tasty!

Chicken Orzo Salad Recipe is available to Print and Save as PDF, if you would like to save this recipe for later.