Name: Greek Chicken and Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 ½ lb skinless boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 ½ tbsp olive oil; 1 ½ tsp oregano; ½ tsp paprika; ½ tsp basil, salt pepper; ½ tsp each: salt and pepper; 3-4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup orzo, uncooked; 1 tbsp minced onion; 2 ¼ cups low sodium chicken broth; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 12 oz cherry tomatoes; 8 oz block feta cheese (cubed), more for serving; ¼ c chopped parsley; 2 oz chopped baby spinach; ⅓ c kalamata olives

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Greek Chicken and Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, hearty orzo pasta, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. The dish comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The aroma of garlic, fresh herbs, and roasted tomatoes fills your home, beckoning everyone to gather around the dinner table. Plus, with its minimal prep work, you can savor the moment with family and friends, knowing that a delicious and comforting meal is just about ready to enjoy.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Greek Chicken and Orzo
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Greek Chicken and Orzo

I first stumbled upon this recipe during one of those days when nothing sounds better than a warm, cozy dinner that requires little fuss. It quickly became one of my go-to meals, balancing simplicity and flavor. The beauty of Greek Chicken and Orzo lies in its ability to satisfy cravings for something hearty while being impressively easy to whip up. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you waited so long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 60 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: Bursting with garlic, herbs, and roasted tomatoes that create a mouthwatering experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors and feta cheese make for a beautiful dinner table presentation.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.
Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily adapt it with gluten-free or vegetarian alternatives if needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 ½ lb skinless boneless chicken breast: This lean protein cooks quickly and takes on the flavors beautifully. You can substitute it with boneless thighs for a juicier result.
1 ½ tbsp olive oil: For tossing the chicken and enhancing the dish with rich flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its taste.
1 ½ tsp oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that brings warmth; dried works best, but fresh can be used if you have it.
½ tsp paprika: Provides a hint of smokiness without overwhelming the dish.
½ tsp basil, salt, and pepper: These seasonings round out the flavor profile and elevate the meal.
3-4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic is a staple that adds robust flavor; fresh is always the best choice.
1 cup orzo, uncooked: This rice-shaped pasta absorbs liquid and flavors wonderfully. If you’re avoiding gluten, try quinoa or a gluten-free pasta.
1 tbsp minced onion: Adds sweetness and depth; use finely diced onion if you prefer.
2 ¼ cups low sodium chicken broth: Essential for cooking the orzo; low sodium ensures you can control the saltiness.
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Pierces through the richness of the dish, balancing the flavors perfectly.
12 oz cherry tomatoes: Adds a burst of sweetness; feel free to substitute with grape tomatoes or even diced larger tomatoes.
8 oz block feta cheese (cubed): Creamy blocks melt beautifully into the dish. Crumbled feta can work too, but it may break down more.
¼ cup chopped parsley: Freshens the dish and adds a pop of color.
2 oz chopped baby spinach: Adding greens increases the nutritional value and brings a slight earthiness.
⅓ cup kalamata olives: Their brininess contrasts nicely with the other flavors; if you don’t have them, green olives can work well too.

How to Make Greek Chicken and Orzo

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This allows for even cooking right from the start.

Prepare the Chicken: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add 1 ½ lb skinless boneless chicken breast cubes along with 1 ½ tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp each of salt and pepper, 3-4 minced garlic cloves, 1 ½ tsp oregano, ½ tsp paprika, and ½ tsp dried basil. Toss everything together, ensuring that each piece of chicken is well-coated in the flavorful mixture.

Combine with Orzo: Add 1 cup uncooked orzo, 2 ¼ cups low sodium chicken broth, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp minced onion, and 12 oz cherry tomatoes to the dish. Stir everything well to ensure all of the orzo is submerged in the liquid, which is crucial for perfect cooking. Nestle the 8 oz cubed block of feta cheese throughout the mixture for added creaminess.

Cover and Bake: Seal the dish tightly with foil and pop it into the oven for about 35-40 minutes. Resist the urge to peek during the first 35 minutes, as keeping the steam inside will help cook everything evenly. Check if the orzo is al dente and the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.

Uncover and Stir: Once cooked, carefully remove the foil. Stir the mixture gently to incorporate the feta into the dish. You’ll notice the tomatoes may burst, releasing their juices which further enriches the sauce.

Add Spinach and Parsley: Fold in 2 oz chopped baby spinach and ¼ cup chopped parsley. Let the spinach wilt slightly and mix together; this brings extra color and nutrients while thickening the sauce a bit.

Garnish & Serve: Finish by topping with ⅓ cup kalamata olives, additional feta, and more parsley for garnish. Your dish is now vibrant, aromatic, and ready to indulge!

Storing & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When reheating, use the microwave or oven; if using the oven, cover with foil and heat at 350°F until warmed through. Keep in mind that some texture may change after freezing, so adding a splash of broth when reheating can help refresh the dish.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid over-cooking the chicken by checking the temperature early, and remember that it continues to cook slightly after removed from heat.
For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning. This helps with even cooking.
If the orzo absorbs too much liquid during baking, adding a bit of extra broth can refresh it.
Experiment with different vegetables! Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers can be lovely additions.
Consider marinating the chicken for a few hours beforehand with garlic and lemon to deepen the flavors.

Greek Chicken and Orzo boasts a delightful combination of comfort and vibrant flavor, making it a weeknight favorite and a hit for gatherings. Explore the variations, switch up the veggies, or play with the spices! Bon appétit awaits.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While orzo has a great texture, you can try embracing small pasta shapes like ditalini or even subbing in traditional rice. Just remember to adjust the cooking times based on the pasta’s requirements.

How can I customize the flavors?

Adding your favorite Mediterranean spices can really elevate the dish! Try including a pinch of cinnamon or cumin for a different twist, or why not throw in some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost?

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Greek Chicken and Orzo holds up well for meal prep. Just prepare the dish and divide it into individual containers for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

What can I serve it with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up those flavorful juices. You could also serve it alongside a tzatziki dip for a refreshing contrast!