Greek Lemon Chicken and Orzo Dinner
This robust, one-pan Mediterranean-inspired meal features tender, browned bone-in chicken thighs simmered to perfection with orzo pasta. As the chicken sears, it creates a flavor-packed base, while the orzo releases its starch into the broth to form a naturally velvety, aromatic sauce. Finished with bright, thin-sliced lemons and tangy feta, this dish offers a balanced, restaurant-quality meal that is perfect for any night of the week.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 Servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
1.5 lbs (680g) Chicken Thighs (Bone-in, skin-on)
1 cup (200g) Orzo Pasta
2 cups (475ml) Low-sodium Chicken Broth
1 large Lemon, thinly sliced (seeds removed)
1/4 cup (40g) Feta Cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp Olive Oil
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 tsp Dried Oregano
Instructions
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place chicken skin-side down in the skillet and sear until the skin is deeply browned and crispy, about 6-8 minutes.
Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes, then remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Add the minced garlic and dried oregano to the reserved fat in the pan, sautéing until fragrant.
Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring for 1-2 minutes to toast slightly.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo and liquid.
Arrange fresh lemon slices over the chicken and orzo.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Remove from heat, sprinkle with crumbled feta, and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure the chicken is skin-on to achieve the best Maillard reaction. For extra flavor, you can finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Find it online: https://kindeat.com/greek-lemon-chicken-and-orzo-dinner/