Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Greek Chicken and Orzo dish. Tender, marinated chicken pairs beautifully with perfectly cooked orzo, fresh cherry tomatoes, spinach, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. Enhanced with a sprinkle of feta and fresh herbs, this dish brings a taste of Greece straight to your table.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4 pieces Chicken breasts (Boneless skinless, pounded thin for even cooking)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil (Divided: for marinating and cooking)
- 1 - Lemon (Zested and juiced)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Minced divided use)
- 1 tsp Dried oregano (For authentic Greek flavor)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Ground black pepper (-)
- 1 cup Orzo (Uncooked)
- 2 cups Chicken broth (Low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes (Halved)
- 2 cups Fresh spinach (Roughly chopped)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives (Pitted and halved optional)
- 1/4 cup Crumbled feta cheese (Optional for garnish)
- A few - Fresh dill or parsley Chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, the zest and juice of the lemon, 2 minced garlic cloves, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let marinate for 5–10 minutes.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with the remaining olive oil.
- Sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside; slice into strips if desired.
Cook the Orzo:
- In the same skillet, add the uncooked orzo and toast it lightly for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and the juice of the lemon.
- Bring to a simmer and let the orzo cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Combine Vegetables:
- Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Kalamata olives (if using).
- Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
Finish the Dish:
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo and vegetable mixture to warm through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Garnish and Serve:
- Plate the Greek Chicken and Orzo, and garnish with a generous sprinkle of crumbled feta and freshly chopped dill or parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the Mediterranean burst of flavors!
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, allow the chicken to marinate a bit longer (up to 15 minutes) before cooking.
- This dish can be easily adapted—try substituting chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Pair with a light Greek salad or a side of crusty bread to complete your Mediterranean meal.
Enjoy your Greek Chicken and Orzo: A Mediterranean Gem in International Recipes—a vibrant and hearty dish that transports you straight to the sunny coasts of Greece!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
