Description
Experience the delightful flavors of Spinach Orzo Chicken Salad with Goat Cheese, a nutritious and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This refreshing salad combines tender orzo pasta, juicy chicken, and fresh spinach, topped with creamy goat cheese and a zesty vinaigrette. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or as a colorful side for your next picnic or barbecue. Bursting with nutrients and customizable to your taste, it’s a wholesome choice that brings together flavor and freshness in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 1 cooked chicken breast, diced
- 3 cups baby spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted red pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup sliced green onion
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 2 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons chicken sparkling grape juice vinegar (or white/red apple vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo according to package directions; rinse and drain under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo with diced chicken, chopped spinach, roasted red pepper, green onion, cherry tomatoes, basil, and goat cheese.
- For the vinaigrette, whisk together vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is well coated. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg