Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil transported me straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. This Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo recipe is a delightful escape, perfectly marrying tender chicken with creamy orzo pasta in a dish that’s bursting with bright, zesty flavors. With just 30 minutes of your time, this quick meal not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your soul, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners. The unique twist of tangy feta adds a luscious creaminess, while the fresh spinach brings a vibrant pop of color. Are you ready to bring some Mediterranean magic to your table? Why is Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo irresistible? Speedy Cooking: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a favorite for those with busy schedules. Zesty Flavor: The lemon and feta combination bursts with Mediterranean freshness, elevating a simple meal into something truly special. Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s not just delicious; it’s also wholesome, satisfying those post-meal cravings without any guilt. Versatile Options: Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas, this recipe adapts beautifully, allowing you to explore flavors according to your taste. One-Pan Wonder: Simplify cleanup with this one-pan recipe, making it easier to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete dinner that’s sure to impress! If you love quick and savory meals, you might also enjoy my Chicken Broccoli Savory or Honey Pepper Chicken. Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo Ingredients For the Chicken Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – This is your main protein; turkey breast is a great substitute for variety. Olive Oil – Essential for cooking; can be swapped with grapeseed oil or melted butter. For the Orzo Orzo Pasta – Adds texture and carbs; opt for quinoa or rice if gluten-free is your goal. Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Deepens the flavor; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian twist. For the Flavor Garlic (cloves, minced) – Infuses aromatic richness; fresh is best, but garlic powder can be a speedy alternative. Lemon (zested and juiced) – Provides brightness and acidity; lime serves as an alternate citrus if you like. For the Creaminess Crumbled Feta Cheese – Adds tang and creaminess to the dish; try goat cheese or ricotta for something different. For the Greens Fresh Spinach or Kale – Boosts nutrition and color; you can use Swiss chard or arugula as substitutes. For Seasoning Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing flavors together; adjust to your taste preferences. For Garnish Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Adds a pop of freshness; feel free to substitute with cilantro or leave out if you prefer. With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying a delightful plate of Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo. Ready to dive into the cooking process? Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo Step 1: Prep the Chicken Begin by seasoning the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and freshly grated lemon zest. Make sure to coat them evenly for an enhanced flavor. Set the chicken aside to marinate for about 10 minutes while you gather your other ingredients, setting the stage for the delicious Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo. Step 2: Heat Oil In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. The oil should shimmer slightly, indicating it’s hot enough to start cooking. Preparing the pan correctly ensures a lovely golden crust forms on the chicken, essential for locking in flavors as you embark on this culinary journey. Step 3: Cook Chicken Carefully place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown color and read 165°F internally. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if needed, cook in batches. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate to keep it juicy for the Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo. Step 4: Sauté Garlic With the skillet still hot, add the minced garlic to the remaining oil and sauté for about 1 minute. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, as you want it to be fragrant and golden. This step infuses the dish with an aromatic base, perfect for complementing the upcoming ingredients. Step 5: Add Orzo Now, stir in 1 cup of uncooked orzo pasta, toasting it lightly in the pan for 1–2 minutes. This will add a nice nutty flavor to the orzo, elevating the taste of your Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo. Keep stirring to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick or burn during toasting. Step 6: Add Liquid Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and the juice of one lemon into the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, creating a creamy texture. Step 7: Add Greens Once the orzo is tender, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the greens have wilted down and brightened the dish with vibrant color. This step not only boosts nutrition but also adds a lovely visual appeal to your Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo. Step 8: Combine Chicken and Feta Dice the rested chicken and return it to the skillet, mixing it in with the cooked orzo and greens. Sprinkle in 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese and gently fold everything together to combine the flavors. The warm chicken will help melt the feta, integrating its creamy goodness throughout the dish. Step 9: Adjust Seasoning Taste the Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo and adjust the seasoning as necessary with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice. This is your opportunity to fine-tune the dish to your palate, ensuring that every bite is perfectly balanced and flavorful. Step 10: Serve To serve, garnishing the Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo with freshly chopped parsley adds a touch of color and freshness. Spoon generous portions onto plates and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in this quick meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Expert Tips for Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness. Use a meat thermometer to double-check. Toast Orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo before adding liquids enhances its nutty flavor. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning—this is key for your Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo. Perfect Creaminess: For a richer dish, consider a splash of heavy cream or a dab of butter before serving. This adds luxurious creaminess to the orzo. Use Sufficient Skillet Size: Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking chicken. A larger skillet allows for proper browning and even cooking, essential for flavors. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste your dish before serving, adjusting lemon juice, salt, or pepper to match your preferences. This simple step makes a world of difference! What to Serve with Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo A vibrant meal deserves an equally delightful ensemble, creating a feast that nurtures both body and spirit. Garlicky Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out the sweetness in veggies like carrots and bell peppers, which complement the lemony chicken beautifully. Mediterranean Salad: A crisp salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy orzo. Pairing these flavors creates a balanced experience. Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous garnished with fresh herbs mirrors the Mediterranean theme while providing a light, fluffy texture that harmonizes perfectly with the dish. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky char of grilled asparagus offers a delightful crunch, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile without overshadowing the chicken. Lemon-Rosemary Quinoa: A citrusy quinoa dish echoes the lemon flavors in the main course while adding a nutty twist and fiber to the meal. Tzatziki Sauce: Serve a chilled tzatziki on the side to introduce a cool, creamy element that echoes the feta’s tanginess in the dish. White Wine Spritzer: A light and bubbly white wine spritzer pairs wonderfully, adding a refreshing element that shines alongside the rich flavors of the chicken. Baklava: For dessert, the sweet, flaky layers of baklava provide a delectable finish, rounding off your Mediterranean experience with sugar and spice. These pairing ideas offer a rainbow of flavors, textures, and aromas, ensuring a delightful dining experience that celebrates your delicious Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo. Make Ahead Options These Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo are perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal but need to save time! You can season the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to develop. Additionally, you can cook the orzo and mix it with the broth, garlic, and lemon juice, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat the orzo gently and add the wilted greens and cooked chicken. To maintain quality, ensure to let them cool completely before refrigerating and reheat gently on the stove. You’ll have a delicious, hearty meal on the table with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo Fridge: Refrigerate leftover Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly with plastic wrap or foil before sealing. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess and prevent the orzo from drying out. Enjoy Within: For best flavor and texture, aim to consume frozen portions within a month. This will ensure your Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo remains delicious! Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo Variations Feel free to get creative and personalize this Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs! Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops for a delightful seafood spin. Just cook the seafood until pink and opaque for a satisfying change. Vegetarian Delight: Use chickpeas or lentils in place of chicken. They provide protein and bulk, making this a hearty vegetarian option brimming with Mediterranean flavor. Gluten-Free: Swap orzo with gluten-free pasta or quinoa for a lighter, gluten-free version of this dish. The flavors will still shine through beautifully! Spicy Kick: For some heat, mix in red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a diced serrano pepper. This twist adds an exciting layer of flavor for spice lovers! Creamy Variation: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese before serving for an extra creamy texture. This creates a luxurious mouthfeel that pairs perfectly with the lemon and feta. Herb Infusion: Swap out parsley for fresh dill or basil to bring a different herbaceous note. The fresh flavors can elevate the dish to an entirely new realm! Nutty Edge: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pine nuts over the top before serving for added crunch and flavor contrast. It’s a delightful way to boost flavor and texture! Additional Veggies: Toss in roasted bell peppers, artichokes, or zucchini to enhance nutrition and flavor. The more colorful your dish, the more inviting it will be! Once you’ve savored the basics, don’t forget to check out my other delicious recipes like Butter Chicken Comfort or Chicken Caesar Sandwich. Happy cooking! Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo? Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, look for fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are pink and firm to the touch, ensuring they are not slimy or discolored. For lemons, opt for ones that are bright yellow and feel firm when squeezed, as this indicates juiciness. Choose orzo pasta that is dry and free from any visible damage, and always check the expiry date on the packaging to ensure freshness. How should I store leftover Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo? For optimal freshness, store your leftover Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing to keep moisture at bay. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the creamy texture! Can I freeze Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo? Very! To freeze this delicious dish, portion out the Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to squeeze out any excess air to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth or water to keep it from drying out. What should I do if my orzo is mushy when cooking? The best way to avoid mushy orzo is to monitor the cooking time closely. If you notice the orzo getting overly soft, remove it from the heat immediately and consider draining any excess liquid. A good practice is to start checking for doneness a minute or two before the recommended cooking time. If it does turn out mushy, consider repurposing it into a hearty soup or mixing it into a frittata for a delicious second chance! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, consider substituting the chicken with chickpeas or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood option. For those with gluten sensitivities, you can easily swap out the orzo for quinoa or rice. Additionally, ensure your feta cheese is suitable for anyone with lactose intolerance or opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens! How long will Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo stay good in the fridge? This flavorful dish will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain quality. Reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve it again, and for the best experience, enjoy it within this timeframe! Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo: A Fresh 30-Minute Delight This Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo recipe is a delightful escape that merges tender chicken with creamy orzo pasta, bursting with bright flavors. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Turkey breast can be substituted.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be swapped with grapeseed oil or melted butter.For the Orzo1 cup Orzo Pasta Quinoa or rice can be used for gluten-free.2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option.For the Flavor3 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh is best, but garlic powder can be an alternative.1 piece Lemon (zested and juiced) Lime can be used as alternate citrus.For the Creaminess1 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese Goat cheese or ricotta can be used as alternatives.For the Greens2 cups Fresh Spinach or Kale Swiss chard or arugula can be substituted.For Seasoningto taste Saltto taste PepperFor Garnish2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped) Cilantro can be used instead or omitted. Equipment Skillet Method Cooking InstructionsSeason the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon zest; let marinate for 10 minutes.Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.Remove chicken and let it rest on a plate.Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.Stir in orzo pasta, toasting it lightly for 1-2 minutes.Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice; bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 10-12 minutes.Stir in spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until wilted.Dice the chicken and return to the skillet; add crumbled feta cheese and mix gently.Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.Garnish with parsley and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesPerfect for a quick weeknight dinner and easily adaptable with different proteins or vegetables. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
