This feta orzo with chicken is a tasty one-pan meal! It’s packed with juicy chicken, creamy feta cheese, and the delightful texture of orzo pasta. Who wouldn’t love a dish that’s colorful and comforting?
Trust me, the salty feta goes perfectly with everything else. Plus, clean-up is a breeze—just one pan to wash! Can we get a cheer for easy dinners? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo: This tiny pasta shapes up beautifully in this dish. If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta like couscous, acini di pepe, or even rice if needed. Just be mindful of cooking times, as they may differ.
Chicken: I chose chicken breast for its lean quality. Boneless thighs work well too, adding more flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or tofu instead.
Cherry Tomatoes: They’re sweet and juicy in this dish. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a slightly different flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is perfect for wilting into the dish. If you’re out of fresh greens, you could substitute with kale or even frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a nice tang that complements the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan feta or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken breast can be tricky, but here’s how to ensure they turn out juicy and golden. Start by cutting the chicken into even pieces, which helps them cook uniformly.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano before cooking. This adds flavor right from the start.
- When heating the oil, let it get hot before adding the chicken. You want good searing, so don’t crowd the pan.
- Cook until golden brown, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes depending on the size of the pieces. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
How to Make Feta Orzo With Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy feta orzo dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and simple meal perfect for busy nights!
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 the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Make sure not to burn the garlic, as it can make the dish taste bitter.
3. Toast the Orzo:
Next, pour the orzo pasta into the skillet. Stir it gently to coat with the oil and garlic, toasting the orzo lightly for about 1-2 minutes. This gives it a nice flavor!
4. Cook the Orzo:
Now, add the chicken broth (or water) into the skillet. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add the Vegetables:
After the orzo is cooked, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down and the tomatoes soften, adding a burst of flavor and color!
6. Combine the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and gently stir to combine everything. Heat it through for a minute or two.
7. Finish with Feta and Dill:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and fresh chopped dill over the top. This gives the dish a creamy and fresh finish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the feta orzo warm, and feel free to garnish with extra dill or feta if you like! Enjoy your delicious and easy meal!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use shrimp or even diced tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times as shrimp cooks quickly (about 3-4 minutes) and tofu should be firm and cooked until golden.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo or Other Types of Orzo?
Yes, whole wheat orzo is a great option for added fiber! If you’re using other types of pasta, just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove with a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or even arugula based on your preference. Just adjust cooking times as needed, especially for denser vegetables.
