One Pot Greek Chicken and Orzo (Easy & Freezer-Friendly)
There’s something special about sitting down to a warm, comforting meal after a long day, especially when it didn’t take hours to cook or leave you with a pile of dishes to wash. That’s exactly where One Pot Greek Chicken and Orzo comes in—juicy chicken thighs, tender orzo pasta, fresh spinach, bright tomatoes, and a salty sprinkle of feta, all made in just a single pot.
You don’t just get a delicious dinner; you get convenience, balance, and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or just looking for a quick yet impressive dish, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Greek Chicken and Orzo
When you’re trying to decide on dinner, you want something that’s easy, flavorful, and filling. This recipe does all that and more:
- All-in-one meal: You get protein, carbs, and veggies in a single dish.
- Quick cleanup: Only one pot means less mess and less stress.
- Freezer-friendly: You can make it ahead and freeze for busy nights.
- Picky-eater approved: Spinach blends right in with the creamy orzo.
- Restaurant-quality flavors: Tangy feta and Mediterranean spices make every bite pop.
What is Orzo?
If you’ve ever mistaken orzo pasta for rice, you’re not alone. Orzo is a short-cut pasta shaped like a grain of long rice. Unlike rice, it cooks quickly and releases starch into the broth, creating a naturally creamy texture without the need for heavy cream or half-and-half.
In Greek and Mediterranean cooking, orzo is often used in soups, casseroles, and one-pot meals. Here, it’s the star of the dish, soaking up chicken stock, herbs, and all the savory goodness from the seared chicken.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, gather everything you need. Keeping your ingredients prepped and ready will make the process smooth and stress-free.
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) | 1 ½ lbs | Juicier than chicken breasts |
| Kosher salt & pepper | To taste | Season generously |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp | For richness |
| Shallots, diced | 2 large | Mild, sweet flavor |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves | Flavor base |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp | Classic Greek seasoning |
| Dried basil | ¾ tsp | Mediterranean aroma |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | Smoky depth |
| Dried dill | ½ tsp | Light, fresh note |
| Dried thyme | ¼ tsp | Earthy balance |
| Ground cinnamon | ⅛ tsp | Adds warmth |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp | Helps thicken the orzo |
| Chicken stock | 3 cups | Use low sodium for control |
| Orzo pasta | 1 cup | Short-cut pasta |
| Baby spinach | 3 cups | Or swap with kale or arugula |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 2 cups | Adds brightness |
| Feta cheese, crumbled | ½ cup | Tangy finish |
How to Make One Pot Greek Chicken and Orzo
Cooking this dish is easier than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have dinner ready in under an hour.
Step 1 – Prepare and Sear the Chicken
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Heat butter in a Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat.
- Sear chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (about 4–5 minutes per side).
- Remove and set aside.
Step 2 – Build the Flavor Base
- In the same pot, sauté diced shallots until soft.
- Add garlic and all the dried herbs. Let them cook for a minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in flour and whisk for about a minute to form a light roux.
Step 3 – Cook the Orzo
- Pour in chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom (that’s where the flavor hides).
- Add orzo, stirring occasionally, until it cooks through and absorbs the broth (about 6 minutes).
Step 4 – Add Greens & Finish the Dish
- Stir in spinach until wilted.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pot.
- Top with halved cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta just before serving.
Tips and Tricks for Success
Getting this dish perfect every time is easy with a few pro tips:
- Use a Dutch oven: The heavy bottom distributes heat evenly and gives your chicken the perfect sear.
- Opt for good stock: Homemade is best, but low-sodium store-bought works too.
- Sneak in greens: Spinach is classic, but kale, arugula, or Swiss chard also work beautifully.
- Reheat properly: Avoid rubbery chicken by reheating in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil.
- Freeze smart: Freeze the chicken separately from the orzo to keep the texture just right.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is versatile and easy to customize to your taste:
- Chicken breasts instead of thighs: Slightly leaner but still tasty—just don’t overcook.
- Fresh herbs: Use 1 tablespoon fresh for every 1 teaspoon dried.
- Veggie boost: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or artichokes.
- Cheese swaps: Try goat cheese or parmesan instead of feta.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
Knowing how to store and reheat makes this dish even more practical:
- In the fridge: Keep leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer: Cool completely, then portion chicken and orzo separately into freezer bags. Lay flat for quick freezing.
- To reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat chicken in the oven, and warm orzo on the stovetop with a splash of water or stock.
Frequently Asked Questions about One Pot Greek Chicken and Orzo
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work fine, but thighs give you more flavor and tenderness.
Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is wheat-based, but you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe reheats and freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
What can I serve with Greek Chicken and Orzo?
It’s a complete meal on its own, but a side Greek salad or roasted vegetables makes a great pairing.
Conclusion
When you need a meal that’s quick, flavorful, and satisfying, One Pot Greek Chicken and Orzo delivers every time. You get the perfect mix of juicy chicken, creamy orzo, fresh greens, and bright Mediterranean flavors—all with minimal effort and cleanup.
This recipe isn’t just about convenience—it’s about giving yourself the comfort of a home-cooked meal without sacrificing time or flavor. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the pot or pulling a portion from the freezer, it’s the kind of dinner you’ll keep coming back to again and again.
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