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One-pan Greek Chicken and Risoni

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One-pan Greek Chicken and Risoni is a comforting Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, lemon, herbs, and tomatoes all cooked together in a single pan. It delivers bright, fresh flavors with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs or 2 large chicken breasts
  • 1 cup risoni (orzo pasta)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup spinach (optional)
  • 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano.
  3. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the risoni to the pan and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes while stirring.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, stirring to combine.
  8. Add the cherry tomatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  9. Return the chicken to the pan, placing it on top of the risoni.
  10. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes until the risoni is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
  11. If using spinach, stir it in during the final few minutes until wilted.
  12. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the dish before serving.

Notes

  • Olives can be added for extra Mediterranean flavor.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes can replace cherry tomatoes for a richer taste.
  • Chicken thighs remain juicier, but chicken breasts also work well.
  • Add zucchini or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of broth to loosen the pasta.

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