Greek Pasta Chicken Salad Jars

Experience the bright and refreshing tastes of the Mediterranean with these Greek Pasta Chicken Salad Jars. This clever meal-prep solution layers zesty dressing, crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and chewy orzo to create a portable lunch that stays fresh and vibrant for days. It is the perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and satisfying carbohydrates for anyone on the go.

Pin It

The beauty of this salad lies in its architectural layering. By placing the dressing at the very bottom and the denser, non-absorbent vegetables next, you create a barrier that protects the delicate pasta and chicken from becoming soggy. When you're ready to eat, a simple shake brings all the flavors together in a perfect harmony of Greek-inspired goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (180 g) dry orzo pasta
• 2 cups (250 g) cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (grilled or rotisserie)
• 1 cup (120 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup (100 g) cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup (60 g) red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup (50 g) red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup (75 g) Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 3/4 cup (100 g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Organize cleaning supplies and kitchen essentials under the sink for quicker access during cooking and cleanup.

Check price on Amazon

Instructions

Step 1

Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool completely.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Step 3

Prepare four large (16 oz/480 ml) mason jars or similar containers.

Step 4

Layer the ingredients in the following order for best freshness: first, divide the dressing evenly between jars; add red onion, bell pepper, and cucumber directly on top of the dressing; next, layer the cherry tomatoes; add the cooked orzo pasta, spreading it evenly; top with chicken, then olives, feta cheese, and finish with fresh parsley.

Step 5

Seal jars tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Step 6

When ready to serve, shake the jar to distribute the dressing or pour contents into a bowl and toss to combine.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Stellen Sie sicher, dass die Orzo-Pasta nach dem Kochen vollständig abgekühlt ist, bevor Sie sie in die Gläser füllen. Wenn die Pasta noch warm ist, kann der entstehende Dampf das Gemüse welk werden lassen. Die Verwendung von 16-oz-Einmachgläsern bietet zudem ausreichend Platz, um den Salat vor dem Verzehr kräftig zu schütteln.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Sie können die Orzo-Pasta problemlos durch Vollkornpasta oder Quinoa ersetzen, um den Ballaststoffgehalt zu erhöhen. Für eine milchfreie oder vegane Version lassen Sie den Feta einfach weg oder verwenden Sie eine pflanzliche Feta-Alternative. Wenn Sie kein Hähnchen mögen, eignen sich auch Kichererbsen hervorragend als Proteinquelle.

Serviervorschläge

Diese Salatgläser sind eine vollständige Mahlzeit für sich, schmecken aber auch hervorragend in Kombination mit warmem Pitabrot oder einem Klecks Hummus. Wenn Sie den Salat aus dem Glas in eine Schüssel geben, können Sie ihn nochmals mit frischem Zitronensaft verfeinern, um die mediterranen Aromen zu betonen.

Pin It

Mit diesen griechischen Pastasalat-Gläsern im Kühlschrank haben Sie immer ein gesundes, hausgemachtes Mittagessen griffbereit, das keine Kompromisse beim Geschmack eingeht. Genießen Sie die Einfachheit und Frische der mediterranen Küche überall dort, wo Sie gerade sind.

Mount paper towels nearby for quick cleanup of spills, grease, and messes while cooking and prepping meals.

Check price on Amazon

Recipe FAQs

→ How long can these jars stay fresh in the refrigerator?

When properly sealed and layered, these jars keep fresh for up to four days. The key is placing dressing at the bottom and delicate ingredients like feta and parsley at the top to prevent sogginess.

→ Can I prepare these jars ahead of time?

Yes, these jars are designed for meal prep. Assemble them in advance and store in the refrigerator. Simply shake the jar before eating or pour contents into a bowl and toss to distribute the dressing evenly.

→ What's the best way to cook chicken for this dish?

Use grilled or rotisserie chicken for the best flavor. For extra taste, marinate diced chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano before cooking. This adds authentic Mediterranean flair and keeps the meat tender.

→ Can I make substitutions for dietary preferences?

Absolutely. Replace orzo with whole-wheat pasta or quinoa for added fiber. Omit feta for dairy-free versions or use vegan feta. The vinaigrette works beautifully with any protein or vegetable swaps.

→ Why is the layering order important?

Strategic layering keeps ingredients at their best freshness. Dressing goes first to protect vegetables, then harder vegetables like onions and peppers, followed by softer items. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy.

→ What size jars do I need for this?

Use 16-ounce (480 ml) mason jars with tight-fitting lids. These provide perfect portion control and allow enough space for all layers without overcrowding.