chicken florentine salad with orzo pasta

Author of this recipe: Jordan Benziger

Chicken Florentine Salad with Orzo: Tender chicken, spinach, and_orzo_pasta in a light cream sauce over mixed greens; perfect for lunch! #chickenflorentinesalad #orzo #healthylunch

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Ingredients

• - Fresh spinach leaves
• - Grilled chicken breast slices
• - Orzo pasta
• - Cherry tomatoes, halved (for color and flavor)
• - Crumbled feta cheese (optional but recommended for creaminess)
• - Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (add a Mediterranean twist)
• - Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese (for added flavor)
• - Garlic cloves, minced (to enhance the dish's taste)
• - Fresh parsley, chopped (as a garnish and to add freshness)
• - Lemon juice (to brighten flavors)
• - Olive oil (for dressing and cooking pasta)
• - Salt and pepper (to season the ingredients)
• - Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tanginess in the vinaigrette)
• **SEO Keywords:** chicken florentine salad, orzo pasta, spinach leaves, grilled chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, kalamata olives, Parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard

Steps

1. ### Chicken Florentine Salad with Orzo Pasta Recipe
3. #### Introduction:
4. Chicken Florentine Salad with Orzo is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that brings together the flavors of chicken, spinach, and orzo pasta. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal. Follow these detailed steps to create your own delicious Chicken Florentine Salad.
6. #### Ingredients:
8. - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
9. - 8 ounces fresh spinach leaves
10. - 6 ounces orzo pasta
11. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
12. - 1 small onion, finely chopped
13. - 3 cloves garlic, minced
14. - Salt and pepper to taste
15. - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
16. - Lemon juice for serving
18. #### Equipment:
20. - Large pot for boiling pasta
21. - Frying pan or skillet
22. - Cutting board
23. - Chef’s knife
25. ### Step-by-Step Guide:
27. 1. **Prepare the Pasta:**
28. - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
29. - Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
30. - Drain the pasta well and set aside.
32. 2. **Cook the Chicken:**
33. - Preheat your frying pan over medium heat.
34. - Heat the olive oil in the pan and add the chopped onion. Sauté for a few minutes until softened.
35. - Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
36. - Place chicken breasts on top of the onions and reduce heat to medium-low.
37. - Season the chicken with salt and pepper, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer if needed; ensure it reads at least 165°F (74°C).
38. - Remove from the pan and let rest before slicing into thin strips.
40. 3. **Cook the Spinach:**
41. - In the same frying pan, add a few tablespoons of olive oil.
42. - Once heated, add the spinach leaves. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until wilted, stirring occasionally.
43. - Season with salt and pepper to taste.
45. 4. **Combine Ingredients:**
46. - In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo pasta, sliced chicken, and wilted spinach.
47. - Toss gently to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
48. - Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the salad for added flavor and texture.
50. 5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
51. - Drizzle with lemon juice just before serving for a burst of freshness.
52. - Garnish with additional lemon wedges if desired.
53. - Serve immediately while everything is still warm and fresh.
55. #### Tips:
56. - For an extra burst of color, add cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers to the salad.
57. - Use high-quality olive oil for better flavor in the chicken and pasta.
58. - Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly; this prevents foodborne illnesses.
60. #### Conclusion:
62. Creating a Chicken Florentine Salad with Orzo Pasta not only brings together a variety of flavors but also makes for an impressive and versatile dish. Whether served as a light lunch or as part of a dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Enjoy your meal!
64. By following these detailed steps, you can easily make this delicious Chicken Florentine Salad at home using simple ingredients and techniques.

Relevante Seiten

• chicken florentine salad with orzo pasta