Name: Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers with Feta Orzo Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp sea salt; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; Wooden or metal skewers; 1½ cups dry orzo pasta; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp honey; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; Lemon wedges; Extra crumbled feta; Fresh parsley

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Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers with Feta Orzo Salad is a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired meal that brings together juicy grilled chicken, tender orzo pasta and crisp garden vegetables in one satisfying dish. The chicken is marinated in a bright blend of lemon, garlic and herbs before being grilled until beautifully charred, while the refreshing orzo salad is tossed with creamy feta, Kalamata olives and a homemade lemon herb dressing.

This colourful recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, healthy family dinners or meal prep lunches. Every bite combines smoky grilled chicken with cool, refreshing salad for a meal that’s both light and incredibly filling.

Ready in about one hour, it’s a wholesome recipe that’s sure to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is packed with fresh Mediterranean flavours and high-quality protein. The lemon marinade keeps the chicken juicy and tender, while the feta orzo salad adds freshness, creaminess and texture. It’s easy to prepare, ideal for entertaining and just as delicious served warm or chilled.

What Does Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers with Feta Orzo Salad Taste Like?

The grilled chicken is juicy with bright citrus flavour, aromatic garlic and subtle smoky paprika. The orzo salad is light yet satisfying, combining crisp cucumber, sweet cherry tomatoes, salty feta and briny Kalamata olives. The homemade lemon herb dressing ties everything together with refreshing citrus and fragrant herbs.

Benefits of This Recipe

This balanced meal is rich in lean protein from the chicken and feta cheese. Fresh vegetables provide fibre, vitamins and antioxidants, while olive oil contributes heart-healthy fats. Fresh herbs and lemon juice add flavour naturally, making this a wholesome meal without heavy sauces.

Ingredients

Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers

Ingredient	Amount
Boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed	2 lbs
Extra virgin olive oil	3 tbsp
Fresh lemon juice	3 tbsp
Lemon zest	1 tbsp
Garlic cloves, minced	4
Dried oregano	2 tsp
Smoked paprika	1 tsp
Onion powder	1 tsp
Sea salt	1 tsp
Black pepper	½ tsp
Wooden or metal skewers	As needed

Feta Orzo Salad

Ingredient	Amount
Dry orzo pasta	1½ cups
Cucumber, diced	1 cup
Cherry tomatoes, halved	1 cup
Red onion, finely diced	⅓ cup
Crumbled feta cheese	½ cup
Kalamata olives, chopped	¼ cup
Fresh parsley, chopped	2 tbsp
Fresh dill, chopped	2 tbsp

Lemon Herb Dressing

Ingredient	Amount
Extra virgin olive oil	3 tbsp
Fresh lemon juice	2 tbsp
Dijon mustard	1 tsp
Honey	1 tsp
Garlic clove, minced	1
Dried oregano	1 tsp
Sea salt	½ tsp
Black pepper	¼ tsp

Optional Garnishes

Lemon wedges
Extra crumbled feta
Fresh parsley
Fresh dill
Freshly cracked black pepper

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, cutting board, chef’s knife, saucepan, colander, whisk, grill or grill pan, tongs, skewers and serving bowls or plates.

Ingredient Variations

Swap the chicken for turkey breast or shrimp for a different protein. Pearl couscous, quinoa or farro can replace the orzo. Add spinach, rocket or baby kale for extra greens, or sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds over the finished dish for added crunch.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers with Feta Orzo Salad

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, onion powder, sea salt and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

While the chicken marinates, cook the orzo according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse briefly with cool water and allow it to cool slightly.

Transfer the cooked orzo to a large bowl. Add the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, crumbled feta, Kalamata olives, parsley and dill.

To prepare the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, sea salt and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every few minutes until golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Allow the chicken to rest for five minutes before serving.

Spoon the feta orzo salad onto serving plates and arrange the grilled chicken skewers alongside or over the salad. Finish with extra feta, fresh parsley, dill, cracked black pepper and lemon wedges.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm pita bread, hummus, grilled courgettes, roasted peppers, Greek salad or grilled asparagus. A side of tzatziki also pairs beautifully with the lemon garlic flavours.

Expert Tips

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the best flavour and tenderness. Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy. Rinse the orzo briefly after cooking to stop it from sticking together, and add the dressing while it’s slightly warm so it absorbs more flavour.

Storage

Store the grilled chicken and orzo salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the chicken gently before serving or enjoy it cold with the salad for an easy lunch. The salad can also be prepared one day in advance.

Recipe Information

Detail	Value
Prep Time	20 minutes
Marinating Time	30 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 5 minutes
Servings	4
Difficulty	Easy
Course	Main Course
Cuisine	Mediterranean

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	624
Protein	45 g
Carbohydrates	34 g
Fat	33 g
Saturated Fat	8 g
Fibre	3 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	768 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. The chicken can be marinated overnight, and the orzo salad can be prepared up to one day ahead.

Can I cook the chicken without a grill?

Absolutely. A grill pan, cast-iron skillet or oven broiler all work well.

Can I use another pasta?

Yes. Pearl couscous, small shells or quinoa are excellent substitutes for orzo.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Definitely. Store the chicken and salad separately and assemble just before eating for the freshest results.

Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes. The lemon herb dressing keeps well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Shake or whisk before using.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers with Feta Orzo Salad is a fresh, colourful and protein-packed Mediterranean meal that’s ideal for everything from weeknight dinners to summer entertaining. Juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, tender orzo and creamy feta are brought together with a bright lemon herb dressing for a delicious combination of flavours and textures. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, this recipe is one you’ll enjoy all year round.