Lemon Feta Chicken Orzo Recipe

Lemon Feta Chicken Orzo is a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, creamy feta, and a bright lemony orzo pasta. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. The combination of juicy, seasoned chicken, tangy lemon, and salty feta creates a well-balanced meal that’s both hearty and refreshing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
2. Coat the chicken breasts in this mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the orzo pasta and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and absorbs most of the liquid.
5. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken breasts and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).
3. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Stir in baby spinach (if using) into the warm orzo until wilted.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, parsley, and fresh dill.
3. Squeeze extra lemon juice over the orzo for brightness.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice the rested chicken and place it on top of the orzo.
2. Drizzle with any pan juices for extra flavor.
3. Garnish with additional feta cheese and fresh herbs.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

• Marinate Longer: Let the chicken marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
• Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest enhance the dish’s brightness.
• Toast the Orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo before cooking gives it a nuttier flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F internally.

Variations & Substitutions

Make It Creamy

• Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or Greek yogurt into the orzo for a rich, creamy texture.

Vegetarian Version

• Swap the chicken for grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or chickpeas.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Spicy Version

• Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Extra Protein

• Add shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Greek Salad: A simple cucumber, tomato, red onion, and feta salad pairs well.
• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the dish.
• Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread enhances the flavors.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Feta Chicken Orzo is a delightful Mediterranean dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.

Yield: 4

Lemon Feta Chicken Orzo Recipe

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Lemon Feta Chicken Orzo is a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, creamy feta, and a bright lemony orzo pasta. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. The combination of juicy, seasoned chicken, tangy lemon, and salty feta creates a well-balanced meal that’s both hearty and refreshing.

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Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives (sliced, optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   Add the chicken, season with oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
   Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
   
2. Cook the Orzo:
   In the same skillet, add another tbsp of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   Stir in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
   
3. Simmer:
   Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
   
4. Combine:
   Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well and cook for 2 more minutes.
   
5. Finish & Serve:
   Remove from heat, sprinkle with crumbled feta, parsley, and olives (if using).
   Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Make it Creamier: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for chickpeas or roasted vegetables.
• Pairing Suggestion: Serve with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.