Introduction
Chicken Orzo Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that seamlessly blends tender chicken, hearty orzo, and vibrant vegetables. It’s perfect for summer picnics, packed lunches, or a light weekday dinner. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and delicious.
This salad is not only versatile but also easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. The orzo adds a lovely chewiness that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and crisp veggies, while a tangy dressing ties everything together. Whether enjoyed cold or at room temperature, this salad is sure to please everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions & Preparation
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and will add flavor to the salad.
What can I do if my pasta salad seems dry?
If your salad feels dry, simply add a bit more olive oil or lemon juice, mixing well to incorporate.
Is there a different pasta I can use instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, like ditalini or mini shells.
How do I make this salad spicier?
For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the salad.
Can I add nuts or seeds for extra crunch?
Yes, adding toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds can provide a delightful crunch.
What can I do if my salad ends up bland?
If the salad lacks flavor, try increasing the amount of lemon juice, salt, or feta for more zing.
How can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?
To serve more people, simply double or triple the ingredients while maintaining the same proportions.
Conclusion
Chicken Orzo Pasta Salad makes for a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Its combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fresh vegetables ensures a balanced dish that is filling yet refreshing.
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like olives, artichokes, or different herbs to make this salad your own. No matter how you embellish it, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Recipe Card
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
