Introduction

One-Pot Baked Greek Chicken Orzo Risoni is a delightful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful spices, and pasta, all cooked together in one pot. This recipe captures the essence of Greek cuisine with its vibrant flavors and aromas. Perfect for a hassle-free weeknight dinner, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a family favorite.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken Thighs – 4 pieces, bone-in, skin-on
Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
Onion – 1 medium, diced
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Orzo (Risoni) – 1 cup
Chicken Broth – 3 cups
Tomato Paste – 2 tablespoons
Oregano – 1 teaspoon, dried
Salt – to taste
Black Pepper – to taste
Feta Cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
Kalamata Olives – ½ cup, pitted and sliced
Fresh Parsley – for garnish, chopped

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 35 minutes
Total Time – 50 minutes
Yield – Serves 4

This One-Pot Baked Greek Chicken Orzo Risoni is a simple yet satisfying meal that brings the taste of Greece into your home. The combination of juicy chicken, al dente orzo, and rich Mediterranean flavors will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 200°C (or 400°F). Grease a large baking dish suitable for one-pot meals.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet skin-side down. Sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook for another 3-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables soften, approximately 3-4 minutes.

Add Orzo and Liquid

Stir in the orzo (risoni) and toast for about 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, and add diced tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and dried oregano. Mix well.

Combine with Chicken

Nest the browned chicken on top of the orzo mixture. Sprinkle feta cheese over everything.

Bake in the Oven

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Let it Rest

Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your one-pot baked Greek chicken orzo!

Notes

Chicken Options

You can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts for a more flavorful dish.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as zucchini or spinach according to your preference.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips

Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Cook techniques

One-Pot Cooking

One-pot cooking simplifies meal preparation and cleanup by allowing all ingredients to cook together in a single pot, enhancing the flavor as the ingredients meld.

Baking

Baking the dish ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to develop fully as the dish is slowly roasted in the oven.

Sautéing

Sautéing the chicken at the beginning creates a flavorful base and adds depth to the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Simmering

Simmering the orzo in the broth allows it to absorb the flavors while cooking, resulting in a richer taste.

Seasoning

Proper seasoning at different stages of cooking, including the chicken and broth, is crucial for building layers of flavor throughout the dish.

Resting

Allowing the dish to rest after baking helps the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes, but cooking times may vary.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely, chicken thighs will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with vegetables or plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I prepare this meal in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and combine them when you’re ready to cook.

What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

This One Pot Baked Greek Chicken Orzo is a delightful and convenient dish that combines succulent chicken with flavorful orzo, absorbing all the aromatic spices and aromas cooked together. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, providing an easy cleanup and a delicious meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy the vibrant Mediterranean flavors in every bite!

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