Lemon Herb Chicken with Orzo, Spinach & Feta

Lemon Herb Chicken with Orzo, Spinach & Feta

Serves

2–3

Time

• Prep: 15 minutes

• Cook: 25–30 minutes

Ingredients

Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Juice of ½ lemon

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

Orzo

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Optional: ¼ tsp turmeric or saffron (for golden color like the photo)

Spinach–Feta Topping

• 1½ cups fresh spinach, chopped

• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ⅓–½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Squeeze of lemon

• Black pepper to taste

Garnish

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped

• Lemon wedges

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Coat chicken evenly.

3. Let marinate at least 15 minutes (30–60 minutes = even better).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Pan-Seared (best for that golden crust)

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.

2. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until:

   • Golden brown

   • Internal temp hits 165°F / 74°C

3. Remove and rest under foil for 5 minutes.

4. Slice into thick strips.

(You can also grill or air fry at 380°F / 195°C for 12–15 min, flipping once.)

Step 3: Make the Orzo

1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.

2. Add dry orzo and toast 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.

3. Pour in chicken broth, salt, pepper, and turmeric/saffron if using.

4. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. When tender and creamy, remove from heat.

👉 The orzo should be glossy, not dry. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Step 4: Spinach–Feta Mix

1. While orzo is hot, stir in chopped spinach.

2. The heat will gently wilt it.

3. Fold in tomatoes, feta, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper.

Step 5: Assemble

1. Spoon orzo onto a plate.

2. Top with sliced chicken.

3. Sprinkle fresh herbs.

4. Finish with a lemon wedge on the side.

Flavor Boost Options

• Add a spoon of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on top

• Finish chicken with a drizzle of honey or hot honey

• Add olives or capers for extra Mediterranean vibes

Pro Tips

• Resting the chicken keeps it juicy

• Toasting orzo = deeper flavor

• Lemon at the end keeps everything fresh and bright