Shredded Chicken and Feta Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe 🥗🌿
If you’re looking for a light, fresh, and protein-packed meal, this Shredded Chicken and Feta Mediterranean Orzo Salad is the perfect dish! With tender shredded chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta, every bite is bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
I first made this salad when I wanted something healthy, quick, and full of vibrant ingredients. Using orzo pasta as the base, I added Mediterranean staples like olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano to bring everything together. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also perfect for meal prep, summer picnics, or easy weeknight dinners!
Let’s get started!
⏱ Recipe Time & Servings
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 4-6 servings |
🛒 Ingredients for My Shredded Chicken and Feta Mediterranean Orzo Salad
- 2 cups cooked orzo pasta
- 1½ cups shredded chicken (leftover or rotisserie)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red, yellow, or green)
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
⭐ Pro Tips for Success
- Cook the Orzo Just Right – Make sure the orzo is al dente so it holds up well in the salad.
- Let the Flavors Marinate – For the best flavor, let the salad chill for 30 minutes before serving.
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil – Since olive oil is a key ingredient, choose extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Make It Extra Mediterranean – Add Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for more depth.
- Serve It Cold or at Room Temperature – This salad is best enjoyed chilled or lightly cooled, making it great for meal prep!
🍳 Tools Required
- Large pot (for boiling orzo)
- Mixing bowl (for combining ingredients)
- Whisk or fork (for making the dressing)
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping veggies)
🔄 Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Quinoa | Orzo pasta | A protein-rich, gluten-free alternative |
| Goat cheese | Feta cheese | A creamier, tangier option |
| Lemon juice | Red wine vinegar | A fresher, citrusy dressing |
| Grilled shrimp | Shredded chicken | A seafood-inspired variation |
| Fresh basil | Fresh parsley | A slightly sweet, herbal twist |
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the orzo ahead of time – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Chop the veggies in advance – Keep them stored in separate containers for easy meal assembly.
- Store the dressing separately – Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Shredded Chicken and Feta Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook 2 cups of orzo according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 7-9 minutes).
Drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
While the orzo cools, chop:
✔ 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
✔ 1 cup cucumber (diced)
✔ 1 cup bell peppers (diced)
✔ ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
Crumble ½ cup of feta cheese and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
✔ ¼ cup olive oil
✔ 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
✔ 1 teaspoon dried oregano
✔ Salt and pepper to taste
Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
✔ Cooked orzo
✔ Shredded chicken
✔ Cherry tomatoes
✔ Cucumber
✔ Bell peppers
✔ Feta cheese
✔ Chopped parsley
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
You can enjoy this salad right away, but for best results, let it chill for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve cold or at room temperature, and enjoy a delicious, fresh Mediterranean meal!
🍽 Serving Suggestions for Shredded Chicken and Feta Mediterranean Orzo Salad
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Grilled Pita Bread | A warm, toasty side to scoop up the salad. |
| Hummus & Veggies | A healthy, creamy dip to complement the flavors. |
| Greek Lemon Chicken | A perfect protein pairing for a more filling meal. |
| Chilled White Wine | A crisp, refreshing drink to balance the flavors. |
🥡 Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Enjoy cold or at room temperature—no reheating needed!
- Freeze: Not recommended, as the fresh veggies will lose their texture.
🥦 Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- High in Protein – The shredded chicken makes this a filling, protein-rich meal.
- Packed with Antioxidants – Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers provide vitamins and minerals.
- Heart-Healthy Fats – Olive oil and feta cheese add healthy fats for brain and heart health.
- Great for Meal Prep – This dish stores well and is easy to pack for lunch.
🍷 Suggested Drink That Pairs With The Dish
Best Drink Pairing: Chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Lemon Iced Tea 🍷🍋
Why? The bright, citrusy notes of a Sauvignon Blanc pair perfectly with the fresh herbs and feta, while lemon iced tea adds a refreshing touch to balance the flavors.
❤️ Enjoy!
This Shredded Chicken and Feta Mediterranean Orzo Salad is the perfect blend of fresh, tangy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re making it for meal prep, a summer picnic, or a quick dinner, it’s easy, healthy, and delicious!
Give it a try and let me know how you liked it! 🥗✨🇬🇷
