Greek Pasta Chicken Salad Jars (Print Version)

Mediterranean layers of orzo, chicken, vegetables, olives, and feta in portable jars. Ideal for meal prep lunches.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta & Protein

01 - 1 cup dry orzo pasta
02 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 1 cup cucumber, diced
05 - 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
07 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

→ Add-Ins

08 - 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
09 - 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

→ Dressing

10 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
11 - 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
12 - 1 tsp dried oregano
13 - 1 garlic clove, minced
14 - 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
15 - 1/4 tsp sea salt
16 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

# How to Make It:

01 - Prepare orzo according to package directions. Drain thoroughly, rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking, and allow to cool completely before assembling.
02 - Whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
03 - Set out four 16-ounce mason jars or similar airtight containers with lids for assembly.
04 - Divide dressing evenly among the four jars as the bottom layer. Add red onion, bell pepper, and cucumber directly on top of the dressing. Layer cherry tomatoes next, followed by cooled orzo pasta. Top with diced chicken, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and finish with fresh parsley.
05 - Seal jars tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, shake vigorously to distribute dressing or empty into a bowl and toss thoroughly to combine.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • The layers stay surprisingly fresh for days, meaning you can prep Sunday and eat happily through Thursday without that soggy salad disappointment
  • Something magical happens when the dressing marinates the olives and red onion overnight—it's like the flavors develop a friendship
02 -
  • The layering order really matters—dressing goes first and hearty ingredients go next, with delicate items like feta and parsley on top
  • Make absolutely sure the orzo is completely cooled before layering or you'll end up with condensation and wilted greens
03 -
  • Marinate your chicken in lemon, olive oil and oregano before cooking for an extra flavor boost
  • Let the assembled jars sit for at least an hour before eating so the flavors can start mingling
Go Back