Mediterranean One-Pot Greek Chicken Risoni (Orzo)

Mediterranean One-Pot Greek Chicken Risoni (Orzo)

This Mediterranean One-Pot Greek Chicken Risoni—also known as Orzo—is a hearty and flavor-packed dish that brings the sunny flavors of Greece straight to your table. Juicy chicken thighs are seared and simmered with garlic, lemon, tomatoes, herbs, and briny olives, all nestled into tender orzo pasta. It’s a satisfying and convenient one-pan meal that’s elegant enough for entertaining and easy enough for weeknight dinner. With minimal cleanup and bold flavor, this Greek-style dish will become a staple in your kitchen.

Time Overview

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless thighs or breasts)

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tsp dried oregano

½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Risoni (Orzo) Base:

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup orzo (risoni) pasta

1½ cups chicken broth (low-sodium)

½ cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)

½ tsp dried oregano

½ tsp ground cumin or coriander (optional)

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

½ cup crumbled feta cheese

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill

¼ cup chopped baby spinach (optional)

Extra lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken:

Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Sear chicken skin-side down until golden brown (about 4–5 minutes), then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes.

Remove chicken and set aside (it will finish cooking later).

2. Build the Orzo Base:

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add another 1 tbsp olive oil.

Sauté chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until soft, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.

Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden.

Add broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.

3. Simmer Everything:

Nestle seared chicken thighs back into the pan on top of the orzo.

Bring to a low simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 15–18 minutes or until orzo is tender and chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

Remove lid and stir in olives, spinach (if using), and half of the feta.

Simmer uncovered for 2–3 more minutes to thicken, stirring gently.

4. Serve:

Garnish with remaining feta and parsley or dill.

Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for Success

Sear properly: A good sear locks in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.

Toast the orzo: It adds a nutty depth to the dish and prevents sogginess.

Control liquid: Add a splash more broth if orzo is drying out before chicken is done.

Deglaze if needed: Use a splash of white wine or broth to lift flavorful bits after searing.

Use a wide pan: Ensures even orzo cooking and avoids clumping.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas, mushrooms, or grilled halloumi. Use vegetable broth.

Add Greens: Toss in spinach, kale, or zucchini in the final 5 minutes for extra nutrition.

Different Cheese: Try goat cheese or grated kefalotyri instead of feta for a richer or sharper flavor.

Seafood Twist: Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken—add it during the last 8–10 minutes of cooking.

Low-Carb Option: Substitute orzo with riced cauliflower and reduce the broth (cook uncovered).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use rice instead of orzo?
A: Yes, but it will need a longer cook time and more broth. Use about 1½ cups of liquid per ½ cup rice.

Q: What if I only have boneless chicken?
A: Works perfectly—just reduce searing time slightly and be careful not to overcook during simmering.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo creamy and tender.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on stovetop or microwave.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes! Omit feta or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Serves 4)

Based on bone-in chicken thighs and full-fat feta. May vary with substitutions.

Conclusion

Mediterranean One-Pot Greek Chicken Risoni is a comforting, flavor-forward dish that brings the sun-soaked tastes of the Aegean coast into your home. It’s loaded with savory chicken, creamy orzo, bright lemon, and tangy feta—all in one easy skillet. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe balances convenience with elegance and delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Fresh herbs, salty olives, and rich cheese complete the Mediterranean experience in every bite.