Greek Chicken Orzo Salad with Kalamata Olives

This Greek Chicken Orzo Salad with Kalamata Olives recipe is one I have been making for years. Flavorful thanks to the Olives & Feta Cheese

This Greek Chicken Orzo Salad recipe is one that my wife and I have been making for many years. Unfortunately I don't make it often enough as every time I do I tell myself I need to make it more often!

If you are not familiar with Orzo, it's basically pasta shaped like large grains of rice. Many often confuse Orzo with Rice. Orzo is pasta, not a grain like Rice.

A key ingredient in this dish is the Greek Olives, more commonly known as Kalamata Olives. These Greek olives are only grown in Greece near the town of Kalamata (hence their name) so they can be a little pricey.

Since these olives have a rather unique flavor profile, finding a substitute can next to impossible. Probably the closest would be French Black Olives or Gaeta Olives but if you can't find those either you can use regular California Black Olives but the dish will not be as good Kalamata Olives.

Kalamata Olives are high in sodium, healthy fats and contain a natural antioxidant. They are also particularly high in iron and vitamin A.

Enough talk about Greek Kalamata Olives. If you want to know more about them than what I've already shred, check this page out.

The combination of flavors in this orzo salad is absolutely delicious. Between the Kalamata Olives, the Feta Cheese and the Lemon flavors, you will think you are dining in a fine Greek restaurant!

Greek food lovers should check out my Grilled Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce, my Greek Chicken and Pita Casserole and my Awesome Baklava. They are the real deal!

For another great recipe that uses Kalamata Olives, give my Focaccia with Kalamata Olives recipe a try. My absolute favorite homemade focaccia recipe!

🐓 How to Handle Raw Chicken

Leave the chicken in the fridge until ready to use.
Be careful of dripping juices. Clean up immediately.
Do not wash raw chicken (which prevents cross-contamination).
Wash all utensils and cutting boards (if applicable).
If marinating the chicken, make sure you toss the juices before you cook. Don't ever use the juice from the marinade.
Wash your hands after handling raw chicken.

📋 Gather your Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to make this Greek Chicken Orzo Salad with Kalamata Olives recipe (see recipe card for quantities): Chicken Breasts, Orzo, Greek Kalamata Olives, Green Onions, Roma Tomato, Lemon Juice, Olive Oil, Lemon Pepper Salt and Feta Cheese.

🥣 How to Make Greek Chicken Orzo Salad with Kalamata Olives

In a large pot, bring approximately 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add orzo and boil for 9 to 10 minutes (do not overcook).
Meanwhile, drizzle a skillet with olive oil and cook chicken seasoned with lemon pepper salt.
When the orzo is cooked, drain water and pour pasta into a large serving bowl. Mix in cooked chicken. Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoon of lemon juice and mix well.
Add olives, onions and tomatoes and toss well. Top with feta cheese before serving.

📖 Recipe