This Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken is bright and refreshing! With juicy chicken, tender orzo pasta, and a zesty lemon dressing, it’s a perfect dish for warm days.
The flavors come together so well, it feels like a little party in my mouth. I love packing this salad for lunch; it tastes just as good chilled! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta shape is essential for the salad’s texture. If you can’t find orzo, substitute it with any small pasta like ditalini, couscous, or even rice for a different take.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my favorite for convenience and flavor. If you’re keeping it light, you could use grilled or baked chicken breast. Tofu works well for a vegetarian option too!
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness brightens the dish. If you’re in a pinch, grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes will do. You can also use roasted tomatoes for a richer taste.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds freshness, but feel free to swap it for basil or mint if you prefer a different flavor. They both add a nice twist to the salad!
Feta Cheese: This cheese gives a great tang. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider using a dairy-free feta or simply omit it if you want to keep the salad lighter.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly Without It Being Mushy?
Cooking orzo is simple, but timing is key to avoid mushiness. Follow these steps to get it just right:
- Start by boiling water or chicken broth for extra flavor. Make sure it’s at a rolling boil.
- Add the orzo and stir it gently. This helps prevent sticking.
- Cook per package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Check a minute early!
- Once cooked, drain immediately and rinse under cold water. This halts the cooking process and cools it down for your salad.
With these tips, your orzo will have that perfect bite every time! Enjoy making your Lemon Orzo Salad!
How to Make Lemon Orzo Salad With Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup baby arugula or spinach
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the Dressing:
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Lemon Orzo Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes if you choose to let it chill in the fridge. It’s a quick and refreshing dish perfect for a light meal or side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
In a medium pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, baby arugula or spinach, and fresh parsley. It’s a colorful mix that will be as tasty as it looks!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will create a bright and zesty dressing to bring all the flavors together.
4. Combine and Taste:
Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss everything well to combine. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste a little to check if you’d like to add more salt or pepper!
5. Add Feta and Serve:
If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top just before serving. This adds a nice touch! You can enjoy the salad right away or for a better flavor blend, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes.
6. Enjoy Your Salad!
Serve this refreshing Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a picnic. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will work just fine, though it might require a slightly longer cooking time. Just follow the package instructions, and taste as you go to ensure it’s cooked to your desired doneness!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the feta cheese separate until you’re ready to eat for the best texture, or add it right before serving if you prefer it mixed in.
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried herbs—just use about one tablespoon instead. Alternatively, you can skip the herbs entirely or replace them with any other green herbs that you have on hand, like basil or dill!
