Greek Chicken Orzo with Broccoli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Chicken Orzo with Broccoli is a light yet filling dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean cuisine. The lemony, herbed chicken pairs beautifully with the orzo and broccoli, creating a meal that’s both nutritious and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, al dente orzo, and crunchy broccoli makes for a well-rounded dish, while the tangy dressing adds a refreshing finish. This dish is easy to make, full of healthy ingredients, and perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts (or thighs), boneless and skinless

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water, and set it aside.

2. Cook the broccoli: While the orzo is cooking, steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it thinly.

4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also add a little more olive oil if you like a richer dressing. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

5. Assemble the dish: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, steamed broccoli, and sliced chicken. Drizzle the lemon dressing over the mixture and toss everything together, adding a little of the reserved pasta water to help combine the ingredients, if needed.

6. Garnish and serve: Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley for a burst of flavor and color. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add extra veggies: You can add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or olives to give the dish more Mediterranean flair.

• Spicy kick: If you like some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the dressing or add a sliced jalapeño when cooking the chicken.

• Vegan version: Skip the chicken and feta cheese, and add chickpeas or tofu for protein. You can also use a dairy-free feta alternative for a vegan twist.

• More protein: You can add shrimp, lamb, or even grilled steak for a different protein option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Greek Chicken Orzo with Broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the dish gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist, or microwave it for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free orzo?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free orzo for a healthier or gluten-free option. Both will work well with this recipe.

How do I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with more flavor.

Can I use a different green vegetable instead of broccoli?

Yes, you can substitute broccoli with green beans, spinach, or kale for a different vegetable option. Just make sure to cook them until tender.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. The flavors may even deepen as it sits. Just make sure to store the dressing separately and add it right before serving to maintain the fresh flavors.

Can I add nuts to the dish?

Yes! Adding toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds would add a great crunch and flavor to the dish.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes to the dressing or sprinkle some chili powder or paprika on the chicken while cooking.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

While homemade dressing adds the freshest flavor, you can certainly use store-bought Greek dressing in a pinch.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, but bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the chicken.

Can I make this a one-pan dish?

Yes, you can cook the chicken, broccoli, and orzo in one large pan if you prefer to reduce cleanup. Just make sure to cook each ingredient in stages and combine them at the end.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Orzo with Broccoli is a healthy, delicious, and vibrant dish that’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, nutty orzo, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a tangy lemon dressing, creates a meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying. With its Mediterranean flavors and versatility, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection. It’s great for meal prep, family dinners, or when you’re craving a light yet filling meal. Enjoy the bright flavors and wholesome ingredients in this simple and tasty dish!