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Greek Chicken and Orzo: A Mediterranean Gem in International Recipes

Recipe by Evelyn Marcella Rivera

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.

  • Total Time39 minutes
  • Yield4 1x

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:

  1. 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.
  2. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let marinate for 5–10 minutes.

Sear the Chicken:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with the remaining olive oil.
  2. Sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside; slice into strips if desired.

Cook the Orzo:

  1. In the same skillet, add the uncooked orzo and toast it lightly for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and the juice of the lemon.
  3. 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:

  1. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Kalamata olives (if using).
  2. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes are slightly softened.

Finish the Dish:

  1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo and vegetable mixture to warm through.
  2. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Garnish and Serve:

  1. Plate the Greek Chicken and Orzo, and garnish with a generous sprinkle of crumbled feta and freshly chopped dill or parsley.
  2. 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

Find it online: https://blesseddish.com/greek-chicken-and-orzo-a-mediterranean-gem-in-international-recipes/