Name: Greek Chicken and Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6
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 and 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 one of those meals that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. This dish beautifully marries tender pieces of chicken with pasta in a vibrant medley of herbs, spices, and fresh vegetables. With a splash of tangy lemon juice and creamy feta cheese, it becomes a culinary delight that’s packed with flavor and texture. You’ll love how the orzo absorbs the savory chicken broth as it bakes away in the oven, creating a sumptuous, one-pan dinner that truly feels special.

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 delightful combination during a summer gathering with friends, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The harmony of flavors and the ease of preparation made it an instant favorite. Greek Chicken and Orzo isn’t just another recipe; it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together with minimal fuss, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights or leisurely weekends. I can’t wait for you to try it—your friends will be begging for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Just 15 minutes of prep and one hour in the oven, and dinner is served!
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with zest from lemon, the richness of feta, and the aroma of herbs.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of cherry tomatoes and fresh greens make for a stunning presentation.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a comforting weeknight dinner or a delicious potluck dish—always a hit!
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by switching orzo with gluten-free pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 ½ lb skinless boneless chicken breast: The star protein, tender and juicy. You can substitute with thighs for added flavor or use firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
1 ½ tbsp olive oil: This helps the chicken and orzo cook evenly, providing moisture. Feel free to swap with avocado oil if you prefer.
1 ½ tsp oregano: A staple in Greek cuisine, it adds a warm, herbal depth to the dish.
½ tsp paprika: This gives a subtle sweetness and a touch of color. Smoked paprika can be used for a deeper flavor.
½ tsp basil: Fresh basil is ideal, but dried can work too—just use half the amount.
½ tsp each: salt and pepper: Essential for boosting flavors. Season to taste, adjusting based on your preference.
3-4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a fragrant burst and richness; don’t shy away from using more if you’re a garlic lover!
1 cup orzo, uncooked: This small pasta shape absorbs flavors beautifully; substitute with quinoa for a gluten-free option.
1 tbsp minced onion: For sweetness and depth, you can use shallots or green onions as substitutes.
2 ¼ cups low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist while cooking; vegetable broth works just as well for vegetarian options.
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Brightens the flavor; freshly squeezed is best, but bottled will do in a pinch.
12 oz cherry tomatoes: These add sweetness and a pop of color; halved or whole, they’re delicious.
8 oz block feta cheese (cubed): Creamy and tangy, enhancing the dish significantly; you can use goat cheese as a substitute.
¼ cup chopped parsley: Fresh herbs contribute a lovely brightness; cilantro or basil can be used depending on your taste.
2 oz chopped baby spinach: Adds nutrition and color; kale can be used instead, just make sure to chop it finely.
⅓ cup kalamata olives: Provides a briny, salty contrast; green olives can be used too.

How to Make Greek Chicken and Orzo

Preheat the oven: Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is crucial for properly cooking the chicken and orzo while keeping everything moist.

Prepare the chicken: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, add the cubed chicken breast along with 1 ½ tbsp of olive oil, ½ tsp each of salt and pepper, 3-4 minced garlic cloves, 1 ½ tsp oregano, ½ tsp paprika, and ½ tsp basil. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the herb and oil mixture.

Combine the ingredients: Next, add 1 cup of uncooked orzo, 2 ¼ cups of low sodium chicken broth, 1 tbsp of fresh lemon juice, and 1 tbsp of minced onion to the baking dish. Don’t forget to toss in the 12 oz of cherry tomatoes. Stir gently until well combined, ensuring all of the orzo is submerged in the liquid.

Seal and bake: Place a sheet of aluminum foil tightly over the dish, sealing it well. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes. Avoid opening the foil during this time so all the steam and heat stay trapped. When you check, the orzo should be tender, the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and most of the broth should be absorbed.

Uncover and mix: After the baking time, carefully remove the foil. Give the mixture a good stir to incorporate the feta cubes, which might be softening and becoming creamy. If your tomatoes have burst, that’s perfectly normal!

Add greens and herbs: Stir in 2 oz of chopped baby spinach and ¼ cup of chopped parsley. Allow the spinach to wilt for about a minute. You’ll notice that the dish thickens as the spinach releases some moisture.

Top and serve: Finish with ⅓ cup of kalamata olives and an extra sprinkle of feta cheese. Garnish with additional herbs if you’d like, and enjoy!

Storing & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for a couple of hours, but for longer storage, keep your Greek Chicken and Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, portion out servings into freezer-safe containers where it will stay good for up to 3 months. For reheating, simply microwave portions for about 2-3 minutes until heated through. Note that the texture may change slightly, but adding a splash of broth or water can help refresh the dish.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking chicken: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. It ensures you don’t overcook the chicken, which keeps it juicy.
Fresh is best: Use fresh herbs and vegetables when possible. They elevate the flavors and make a significant difference!
Cook time may vary: Depending on your oven, you may need an extra few minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid undercooked or overdone pasta.
Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; if it feels flat, a sprinkle of salt or fresh lemon juice can brighten it up!

Greek Chicken and Orzo is a delightful recipe that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors while being incredibly simple to make. Packed with juicy chicken, comforting orzo, and vibrant vegetables, it’s not just a dish; it’s an experience waiting to unfold on your dinner plate. With the convenience of a one-pan preparation, dinner time becomes less stressful and more enjoyable. I encourage you to play with the ingredients, tweak the flavors, and make this dish your own. Gather your friends or family, and enjoy this delicious meal together—you won’t regret it!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Greek Chicken and Orzo ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point before baking. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

What if I can’t find orzo?

No worries! If you can’t locate orzo, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like ditalini or even couscous. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, being sure to check for doneness.

How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

You can easily make Greek Chicken and Orzo vegetarian by substituting the chicken with chickpeas or firm tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken and omit the feta or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.

What side dishes pair well with Greek Chicken and Orzo?

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to add sides, consider a refreshing Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or some warm crusty bread to mop up the delightful juices.