This Feta Orzo with Chicken is a tasty mix of tender chicken, creamy feta cheese, and fluffy orzo pasta. It’s easy to prepare and hits the spot for a satisfying meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta is essential for this dish. If you can’t find orzo, try using quinoa or a small type of pasta like couscous or even farro for a different texture.
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and absorb flavors well. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas to make it vegetarian.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a lovely tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese or ricotta can work as a softer alternative. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based feta or skip the cheese altogether.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for its mild flavor and nutrition. You can easily substitute it with kale or Swiss chard, but remember to cook them longer since they’re denser.
Chicken Broth: Using broth adds depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, water works too, but adding a bit more seasoning can enhance the taste. Homemade broth is the best if you have some on hand!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken properly keeps it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the oil. It helps the chicken sear nicely.
- Space the chicken pieces out in the skillet. Crowding makes steaming happen instead of browning.
- Only flip the chicken once it’s golden brown. This ensures a nice crust.
- Cut into one piece to check if it’s cooked through; there should be no pink inside.
With these tips, your chicken will be perfectly cooked and a great addition to your orzo mix!
How to Make Feta Orzo With Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, and oregano, then cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Make sure not to burn it!
3. Toast the Orzo:
Next, add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Lightly toast the orzo for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Add the Tomatoes and Spinach:
After the orzo is cooked, add the cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
6. Combine Everything Together:
Now it’s time to return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the crumbled feta cheese (saving some for garnish later) and chopped dill. If you’re using lemon juice, add that now too. Give everything a good stir and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Before serving, sprinkle the top with additional feta and fresh dill for a pretty finish. Enjoy your warm and flavorful Feta Orzo with Chicken!
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can easily swap the chicken for chickpeas, tofu, or even shrimp. Just ensure that if you’re using shrimp, they’re cooked until pink and opaque, and if using tofu, press it beforehand to remove excess moisture.
What Type of Orzo Should I Use?
Any type of orzo works! You can opt for regular white or whole wheat orzo, depending on your dietary preference. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as whole wheat might take a minute longer.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the orzo and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to toss in any veggies you enjoy, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just remember to adjust the cooking time so that everything is perfectly tender!