Oh, my goodness, I am so excited to share this delightful recipe for Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken! Every time I make this dish, it feels like a little burst of sunshine on my plate. The bright flavors of lemon paired with the fresh ingredients create a perfect blend that’s not only refreshing but incredibly satisfying. I remember the first time I whipped this salad up for a summer picnic with friends. The sun was shining, and I was looking for something light yet filling. This salad is always a crowd-pleaser, and there’s nothing better than seeing my friends go for seconds—well, except maybe when I get seconds too!
What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or whichever greens are in season. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken—and can we take a moment to talk about how convenient that is?! So let’s dive into what we need to throw this splendid dish together!
What’s in Lemon Orzo Salad With Chicken?
Orzo Pasta: This cute, rice-shaped pasta gives the salad a hearty base. I like to use whole wheat orzo for added nutrition—but regular is perfectly fine too!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is the star of the show. I prefer grilled for that smoky flavor, but rotisserie chicken works just as brilliantly when I’m in a pinch.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes bring a pop of sweetness and a cheerful color to the salad. They just scream freshness!
Cucumber: Diced cucumber adds a nice crunch and refreshing taste. You can peel it if you prefer a softer texture, but I like the slight bite of the skin.
Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion gives a bit of that zing we all love. Just be careful not to go overboard unless you want the whole neighborhood to feel your zest!
Baby Spinach or Arugula: I often have baby spinach on hand, but arugula would add a peppery twist that is equally delightful.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley brightens the dish both visually and in flavor. I always say, if it’s fresh, it’s best!
Feta Cheese: This is totally optional but oh-so-delicious! Crumbled feta adds creaminess and a tangy zing that I can’t resist.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is a must for that luscious dressing.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh is best! The juice and zest of the lemon bring that zingy freshness that really makes the salad sing.
Salt and Pepper: Ah, the classic seasoning duo! A sprinkle of salt and pepper really brings all the flavors together.
Is Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is a healthy choice packed with nutrients.
Orzo Pasta: Whole wheat orzo offers fiber to keep you full longer and regulates digestion. It’s also a great carb source for energy!
Cooked Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein to build and repair tissues. Plus, it keeps us feeling satisfied.
Cucumber: Low in calories, cucumbers are hydrating and provide a refreshing crunch, helping to keep you energized.
Spinach or Arugula: Both greens are loaded with nutrients—spinach is high in iron and vitamins A and K, while arugula has unique antioxidants.
Now, while we’re celebrating the health benefits, let’s remember that moderation in toppings—like that feta cheese—is key. If you’re mindful of sodium, just watch the amount of cheese or seasonings added.
Ingredients List
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (grilled or rotisserie)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Serves: 4
How to Make Lemon Orzo Salad With Chicken?
1. Begin by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the orzo aside to cool down.
2. Grab a large mixing bowl and gently combine the cooked orzo, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, spinach or arugula, and parsley. It’s beginning to look beautiful already, right?
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), salt, and pepper to create the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is wonderfully coated in the tangy goodness.
5. If you’re feeling cheesy (who doesn’t, right?), sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and gently mix to combine.
6. Take a moment to taste your creation and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Yum!
7. Serve it up immediately, or if you can resist, chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let those delightful flavors meld together before serving.
Oh, I can already smell the lemony goodness wafting through the kitchen!
Fresh Tips for Your Salad Adventure!
– You can customize this salad in a million ways! Swap the chicken for chickpeas for a vegetarian version or add bell peppers for an extra crunch.
– Feel free to get creative with herbs! Fresh basil or dill could also add an aromatic touch.
– Make it your own by adding in other seasonal veggies like bell peppers or peas. The more, the merrier!
– This salad keeps beautifully for a couple of days in the fridge, so it’s perfect for meal prepping—a win for busy weeks!
Trust me, once you try this Lemon Orzo Salad with Chicken, it’s going to become a staple in your kitchen! I can’t wait for you to enjoy it, so go on, gather your ingredients, and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
