Name: Greek Chicken and Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
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 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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Dump and Bake Greek Chicken and Orzo is one of those comforting dishes that wraps you in warmth with every bite. Picture tender pieces of chicken mingling with creamy orzo, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. All this magic happens with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or inviting friends over for dinner.

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 recipe on a hectic evening when I craved something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. It delivers on all fronts—easy to prepare, full of wholesome ingredients, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. You’ll want to savor every moment with this delightful combination, which is both satisfying and nourishing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep takes only 15 minutes, making it a speedy dinner option.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of herbs and lemon provides a refreshing taste that makes your taste buds happy.
Eye-Catching Appeal: With glistening tomatoes and vibrant greens, it wears a gorgeous Mediterranean wardrobe.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping for your week ahead.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets, just swap orzo with a gluten-free pasta alternative!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 ½ lb skinless boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: The main protein here, it easily absorbs flavors and stays juicy during cooking.
1 ½ tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps to coat the chicken with herbs for extra flavor. Use high-quality extra virgin for a more robust taste.
1 ½ tsp oregano: A staple in Greek cuisine, it offers an earthy, aromatic punch. Dried is best for even flavor distribution.
½ tsp paprika: This enhances both flavor and color, bringing a lovely depth. You can substitute with smoked paprika for a different twist.
½ tsp basil, salt, and pepper: Essential for seasoning, use fresh basil if you have it for a brighter flavor.
3-4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic is a flavor powerhouse that infuses the dish with its aromatic zest. Fresh is always best, but you can use jarred if in a pinch.
1 cup orzo, uncooked: This rice-shaped pasta cooks perfectly in the broth, soaking up the flavors while maintaining a firm texture.
1 tbsp minced onion: A subtle layer of sweetness and crunch; onions also enhance the overall flavor profile.
2 ¼ cups low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and adds necessary liquid for pasta cooking. Low-sodium options let you control saltiness.
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dish and complements the savory flavors beautifully; use fresh lemon for the best result.
12 oz cherry tomatoes: They burst with sweetness when roasted, creating a delicious sauce as they mingle with the other ingredients.
8 oz block feta cheese (cubed), more for serving: Creamy and tangy, feta is essential for that authentic Greek flavor. Crumble extra on top for garnish.
¼ c chopped parsley: Not only a garnish, parsley adds a fresh flavor that rounds out the dish.
2 oz chopped baby spinach: Adds a nutritional boost and a pop of color. You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard if desired.
⅓ c kalamata olives: Their briny flavor complements the dish, balancing the richness of feta. Feel free to substitute with green olives or simply omit.

How to Make Greek Chicken and Orzo

Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough for roasting all those fresh ingredients to perfection.

Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, toss together the cubed chicken, 1 ½ tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, minced garlic, 1 ½ tsp oregano, ½ tsp paprika, and ½ tsp basil. Make sure each piece of chicken is well-coated with the spices for robust flavor.

Mix in Orzo and Liquid: Add 1 cup uncooked orzo, 2 ¼ cups low sodium chicken broth, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, and 1 tbsp minced onion to the chicken. Toss everything together to mix well, ensuring that the orzo is submerged in the broth.

Add Tomatoes and Feta: Nestle 12 oz cherry tomatoes and cubed 8 oz feta cheese throughout the mixture. This way, as it cooks, the tomatoes will burst and the feta will melt into the flavorful broth.

Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. It’s essential not to peek too much; keeping the steam inside helps everything cook evenly. Check before the 35-minute mark; the orzo should be al dente, and the chicken should reach 165°F internally.

Stir and Incorporate Ingredients: Once done, carefully uncover and stir the mixture allowing the melted feta to combine with the orzo. You’ll likely see some burst tomatoes, which is perfect!

Add Spinach and Parsley: Fold in 2 oz chopped baby spinach and ¼ cup chopped parsley. Allow the spinach to wilt for a minute, which adds a lovely green hue and nutritional content.

Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top with ⅓ cup kalamata olives, more crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. You’ll have a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Storing & Reheating

For quick storage at room temperature, cover your leftovers, and they should be safe for about 2 hours. For longer preservation, transfer into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator, where it will last up to 3 days. If you want to store it for even longer, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes or in the microwave until heated through. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but stirring in a dash of olive oil or fresh herbs can help refresh the flavors.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be careful not to overcook your chicken; check frequently to ensure it stays moist and tender.
For a creamier orzo, you can add a splash of cream or milk after removing it from the oven.
If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
To save time, do your vegetable prep in advance! Cut tomatoes and garlic earlier in the day for quick assembly later.
Freezing heed before baking can also be a lifesaver for busy nights; just thaw and bake as directed!

It’s undeniable how quick and satisfying this dish is to prepare while bursting with flavors that transport you straight to a sun-kissed Greek garden. With every bite, you’re sure to savor the harmony of tender chicken, creamy orzo, and the vibrant medley of Mediterranean ingredients. Plus, it’s adaptable enough to fit any taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe proves that comfort doesn’t have to come with complexity. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up this beloved Greek chicken and orzo!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for its texture and ability to absorb juices, you can substitute it with any small pasta, such as farro, or even rice. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary based on the type of pasta you choose.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you crave some heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture or sprinkle some harissa over the dish once it’s finished baking. You could also incorporate jalapeños or other spicy peppers according to your preference.

Can I meal prep this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients the day before and store them separately in the fridge. Then, simply assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat! This makes it a fabulous option for busy weeknights.

What can I serve alongside Greek Chicken and Orzo?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple Greek salad or a light cucumber and yogurt side dish to cool everything down. For added color, serve some roasted vegetables for a complete meal!