This Feta Orzo with Chicken dish is a winner! It’s creamy and cheesy, filled with yummy feta, and paired with tender chicken and small pasta—what’s not to love?
I always enjoy how quick this meal comes together. Just cook the orzo, toss in the chicken and feta, and you’re ready to eat! Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta is perfect for the dish. If you’re in a pinch, you can swap it for other small pasta like couscous or quinoa, but cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on it.
Chicken Breast: I love using boneless chicken breast for its lean protein. If you prefer, thighs can be a great choice as they stay juicier. For a vegetarian option, chickpeas or tofu can work well!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy flavor that melts beautifully into the dish. If you’re not a fan, try goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. Just remember to taste as you go!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice color and nutrition boost! You could also use kale or Swiss chard, but they might need a bit longer to cook down, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Dill: Fresh dill brings a unique flavor. If you don’t have any, parsley or basil can be a lovely alternative. They all add brightness to the dish!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking your chicken just right is important to keep it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness – it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Dice your chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if needed.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before mixing back into the dish—I find this helps keep it tender.
By keeping these tips in mind, your chicken will be juicy and delicious, forming a perfect base for the orzo!
How to Make Feta Orzo with Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. Overall, you should budget about 30 minutes to have a delightful meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and oregano to add flavor. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for later.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
In the same pan where you cooked the chicken, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This adds a wonderful aroma to your dish.
3. Toasting the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the pan and toast it lightly. Stir it frequently for about 1-2 minutes until it takes on a slightly golden color.
4. Cooking the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
5. Adding Veggies:
Stir in the chopped spinach and diced tomato, cooking for another 2 minutes. This will allow the spinach to wilt and the tomato to soften, adding freshness and color to your dish.
6. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan and gently mix everything together. If you’re using lemon juice, add it now for a burst of flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serving:
Transfer your delicious orzo and chicken into bowls. Top each serving generously with crumbled feta cheese and garnish with fresh dill for a delightful finish.
8. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful feta orzo with chicken! This dish makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for the week ahead.
Can I Use Gluten-Free Orzo for This Recipe?
Absolutely! There are several gluten-free options available, such as brown rice or quinoa orzo. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time, as they may vary a bit from regular orzo.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to include other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even peas. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender but still vibrant.
Is There a Vegan Option for This Recipe?
Definitely! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Don’t forget to swap the feta cheese for a plant-based alternative or simply add avocado for creaminess!
