This Feta Orzo with Chicken is a tasty dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy orzo pasta and creamy feta cheese. The flavors come together for a delightful meal!
It’s great because it’s simple to make and perfect for any night of the week. I love adding fresh veggies to mine for a pop of color and crunch. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta shape is perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a substitute, try other small pastas like quinoa, couscous, or small shells if orzo isn’t available.
Chicken: Both breasts and thighs work well. I often opt for thighs for their juiciness. If you’re in a pinch, cooked rotisserie chicken or even chickpeas can make a great alternative.
Olive Oil: A staple for cooking, it adds richness. If you want to change things up, avocado oil or even melted butter can work in a pinch.
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and crunchy, it brightens the dish. You can swap it for yellow or orange bell peppers, or use zucchinis for a different flavor.
Feta Cheese: This cheese adds a tangy flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, try a dairy-free feta or omit it altogether for a lighter meal.
How Can I Cook Chicken to Make It Juicy and Tender?
Cooking chicken properly makes a huge difference in texture and flavor. Start with marinating the chicken, which helps to infuse it with flavor. Here’s how to ensure perfectly cooked chicken:
- Coat the chicken with olive oil and the seasonings well. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes for flavor to develop.
- Heat your skillet beforehand. A hot surface helps to sear the chicken quickly, locking moisture in.
- Aim for a cooking time of 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices from running out when you cut into it.
How to Make Feta Orzo With Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Orzo Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips or chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for cooking chicken)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh dill, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: chicken broth or water for cooking orzo (about 2 cups)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and lovely dish to whip up for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken pieces in a bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then add smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated, and set it aside to marinate while you prep the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Orzo:
In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth or salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the orzo and set it aside.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re browned and cooked through. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the sliced red onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
5. Add the Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes or until it wilts down nicely.
6. Combine Orzo with Vegetables:
Stir in the cooked orzo with the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Mix everything well and let it heat through for a minute or two.
7. Add Lemon Juice:
Pour in the lemon juice and give everything a good stir. This will brighten up all the flavors beautifully!
8. Combine Chicken and Orzo:
Now, place the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet, nestling them on top of the orzo and vegetables.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly across the top, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh dill for that extra freshness.
10. Enjoy:
Serve this delicious dish warm, right from the skillet, or transfer it to a serving dish. It’s a wonderful meal full of flavor that your family will love!
This recipe produces a flavorful, wholesome dish with tender grilled chicken, herby orzo, fresh veggies, and creamy feta, making it a perfect Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Can I Use Whole Wheat orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a healthier alternative and can be used in the same amount. Just keep in mind that it may require a little longer cooking time, so check the package instructions for the best results.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No worries! You can use frozen spinach instead. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the skillet during the recipe. Alternatively, Swiss chard or kale can also work well!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and consider adding more vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. You can also toss in some chickpeas or white beans for extra protein!
Can I Prepare Feta Orzo Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.
