Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Cook Orzo: Once boiling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta. Stir occasionally and cook according to package instructions (usually about 8–10 minutes) until al dente.
3. Drain Orzo: After cooking, drain the orzo in a colander. Rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Allow it to drain thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Chop Vegetables: While the orzo is cooking, rinse and chop the following:
   • Cherry Tomatoes: Cut 1 cup into halves.
   • Cucumber: Peel if desired, then dice.
   • Red Bell Pepper: Remove seeds and dice.
   • Red Onion: Finely chop 1/4 cup.
   • Fresh Spinach or Arugula: Roughly chop 2 cups.
2. Slice Olives: Slice 1/4 cup of olives (if using whole olives).

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Vegetables

1. Diced Chicken: If you haven’t done so already, ensure the cooked chicken breast is diced or shredded into bite-sized pieces. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts on the stovetop or bake them in the oven.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, chopped spinach or arugula, crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, and chopped parsley. Gently toss to mix everything evenly.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

1. Whisk Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil (1/4 cup), lemon juice (2 tablespoons), minced garlic (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as desired.

Step 5: Combine Salad

1. Add Dressing to Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl.
2. Toss Salad: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the dressing is evenly distributed and all ingredients are well combined.

Step 6: Serve

1. Taste Test: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
2. Serve Immediately: You can serve the salad immediately or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
3. Presentation: Serve in bowls or as a platter. You can top with extra feta or parsley for garnish.

Enjoy!

This Healthy Homemade Chicken Orzo Salad is perfect for a family meal, full of flavor and packed with nutrients! Enjoy your fresh and delicious salad!