Description
This Lemon-Feta Chicken and Orzo recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with toasted orzo pasta cooked in flavorful lemon-infused chicken broth. Finished with fresh spinach or kale and creamy crumbled feta, this vibrant dish is perfect as a quick and delicious weeknight dinner packed with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon (zested)
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and lemon zest to infuse them with bright citrus flavor before cooking.
- Heat Oil: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for browning the chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest to retain juiciness.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
- Add Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta, allowing it to lightly toast in the garlic and oil for 1-2 minutes to bring out a nutty flavor.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Greens: Stir in the fresh spinach or kale leaves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Combine Chicken and Feta: Dice the rested chicken breasts and add them back into the skillet along with the crumbled feta cheese. Stir gently to combine all flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and add any additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired to enhance the final flavor profile.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, enjoying a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, omit feta or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best brightness and acidity.
- Orzo can be substituted with other small pasta shapes if preferred.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes in step 4 can give this dish a nice subtle heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: lemon feta chicken, orzo pasta recipe, Mediterranean chicken meal, one pan chicken dinner, quick chicken recipe, healthy chicken and pasta
