Greek Orzo Chicken is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table. This one-pan meal features tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano, then seared to perfection. The chicken is paired with orzo pasta, which cooks in a savory broth infused with tomatoes, spinach, and olives, soaking up all the delicious flavors. Finished with crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs, this dish is a satisfying and comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, Greek Orzo Chicken is a delightful way to enjoy the fresh, wholesome ingredients of Greek cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Cook the Orzo:
- In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat it in the remaining oil and brown slightly. Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Stir in the Kalamata olives and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo mixture. Sprinkle the dish with crumbled feta cheese and garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
Greek Orzo Chicken is a delicious and wholesome meal that’s packed with Mediterranean flavors. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful orzo, and fresh vegetables makes it a well-rounded dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
