Description
Greek-inspired Chicken Orzo delivers Mediterranean comfort with lean protein and wholesome ingredients. Savory chicken and tender pasta combine in a simple, nutritious meal perfect for quick weeknight dinners. You’ll love this flavorful dish that brings Mediterranean warmth to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup (100g) baby spinach or kale
- 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta (whole wheat for extra protein, if available)
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (120g) plain Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup (25g) fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Seasoning Preparation: Blend garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to coat chicken evenly.
- Searing Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden-brown and fully cooked, then set aside.
- Aromatic Base: In the same skillet, sauté diced onions until translucent, add minced garlic, and lightly toast orzo to enhance its flavor.
- Liquid Integration: Pour chicken broth and milk into the skillet, allowing orzo to simmer and absorb the creamy liquid for 8-10 minutes.
- Final Composition: Reintroduce cooked chicken, fold in baby spinach or kale until wilted, then incorporate Parmesan cheese and Greek yogurt to create a rich, creamy texture.
- Finishing Touches: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, then serve immediately.
Notes
Optimize Chicken Browning: Ensure dry chicken surface before searing to achieve perfect golden-brown exterior, preventing steaming and promoting caramelization.
Control Orzo Texture: Stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking and achieve creamy, al dente consistency without becoming mushy or overcooked.
Boost Protein Variation: Substitute chicken with tofu, lean turkey, or plant-based protein alternatives for dietary flexibility while maintaining dish’s nutritional profile.
Enhance Flavor Depth: Toast orzo briefly before adding liquid to develop deeper, nuttier undertones and introduce complexity to the overall taste experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg