Imagine a mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and vibrant vegetables - all in one incredible salad! This Chicken and Orzo Salad with Three Cheeses is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that will transform your ordinary lunch into an extraordinary dining experience. Packed with protein, bursting with flavor, and incredibly easy to prepare, this recipe is about to become your new go-to summer favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken, diced
- Orzo pasta
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Mozzarella cheese, diced
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Spinach
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients: cooked chicken (diced), orzo pasta, feta cheese (crumbled), Parmesan cheese (grated), mozzarella cheese (diced), cherry tomatoes (halved), fresh spinach, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust to taste.
- Once the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to drain thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained orzo, diced cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and diced mozzarella cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything together until well combined. Ensure that the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients.
- Season the salad with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired. You can also add more lemon juice for a tangier flavor.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve the Chicken and Orzo Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Enjoy this refreshing dish warm or chilled, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Tips
- Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time and add instant flavor.
- Rinse the orzo with cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping.
- For extra freshness, use room temperature ingredients when possible.
- Let the salad rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Feel free to customize by adding herbs like basil or oregano for more depth.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of some of the olive oil.
- Toast the orzo lightly in olive oil before boiling for a nuttier flavor profile.
- Chill the salad for a refreshing cold dish, perfect for hot summer days.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 637kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 55g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 190mg
