Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Greek Chicken Orzo Bowls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 81 reviews

Greek Chicken Orzo Bowls are a vibrant and flavorful meal featuring tender marinated chicken cooked in a skillet, served over a bed of fluffy orzo pasta with fresh tomato and cucumber salad, creamy tzatziki, tangy pickled onions, and crumbled feta cheese. This easy-to-make dish combines Mediterranean ingredients and classic Greek flavors for a wholesome, satisfying dinner ready in about 35 minutes.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 1 Pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (sliced in half, depending on thickness)
  • 1/4 Cup Olive Oil
  • 1 Lemon (juiced)
  • 2 Garlic Cloves (mashed)
  • 2 Teaspoons Dried Thyme
  • 1 Teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 Teaspoon Sea Salt

Salad

  • 1 Cup Baby Tomatoes (halved)
  • 2 Persian Cucumbers (chopped)
  • 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 Lemon (juiced)
  • Sea Salt (to taste)

Other

  • 1 1/2 Cups Orzo (uncooked)
  • 1 Cup Tzatziki (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 Cup Feta Cheese (crumbled)
  • 3/4 Cup Pickled Onions
  • Italian Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Orzo: Cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts with olive oil, lemon juice, mashed garlic, dried thyme, Dijon mustard, and sea salt. If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half for even cooking.
  3. Toss the Chicken: Lightly toss the chicken in the marinade to ensure each piece is well coated.
  4. Marinate the Chicken: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
  5. Heat Skillet: Warm a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil.
  6. Add Chicken to Pan: Once the oil is hot and shimmering, place the marinated chicken in the skillet.
  7. Cook the Chicken: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes on one side to achieve a golden sear.
  8. Flip and Cook: Turn the chicken over, pour the leftover marinade into the pan, and cook for another 5-6 minutes undisturbed, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors.
  9. Baste the Chicken: Reduce heat to low and spoon the marinade over the chicken periodically to keep it moist and flavorful.
  10. Finish Cooking: Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  11. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juices.
  12. Prepare the Salad: In a bowl, combine halved baby tomatoes and chopped cucumbers. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, and sea salt, then toss gently.
  13. Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked orzo into serving bowls. Add a portion of the tomato and cucumber salad.
  14. Add Chicken, Tzatziki, and Toppings: Slice the rested chicken and arrange on top of the orzo and salad. Add a scoop of tzatziki, then sprinkle with pickled onions and crumbled feta cheese.
  15. Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing with chopped Italian parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh Mediterranean flavors.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken for longer than 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, can enhance flavor.
  • If you prefer, swap orzo with another small pasta like couscous or quinoa for variation.
  • Tzatziki can be homemade using Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill for fresher taste.
  • The cast iron skillet helps achieve perfect searing; a non-stick pan can be used as an alternative.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Greek

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/greek-chicken-orzo-bowls-recipe/