Description
Greek Chicken and Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece to your dinner table. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked orzo pasta are combined with a zesty lemon-herb sauce for a comforting and flavorful dish. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is ready in under an hour. For a different flavor profile, try this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and cook for 3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned on all sides. Make sure to stir occasionally.
- Add Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir to combine with the chicken and aromatics.
- Pour in Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the pot, ensuring the orzo and chicken are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Check for doneness – the orzo should be tender and creamy.
- Stir in Lemon Juice and Herbs: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice, parsley, and dill.
- Let Rest: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving so the flavors meld.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley or dill if desired.
Notes
- Substitution: You can substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for more flavor.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients and texture.
- Make-Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of Greek salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Cheese: Crumble some feta cheese on top for an added layer of flavor.
Nutrition
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