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Homemade Creamy Spinach Feta Chicken Orzo photo

Creamy Spinach Feta Chicken Orzo

This Creamy Spinach Feta Chicken Orzo is a comforting, flavorful one-pot meal with tender chicken, fresh spinach, tangy feta, and a hint of lemon.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 chicken breasts boneless and skinless
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2% for creaminess
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a kick
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Orzo
  1. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the orzo pasta and stir to coat it in the oil and garlic, toasting lightly for 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer
  1. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Stir in Spinach and Feta
  1. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese. The spinach will wilt quickly in the warm orzo, and the feta will melt slightly, enriching the sauce.
Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Lemon
  1. Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces and return them to the pan. Add the lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley, stirring gently to combine. Allow everything to heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Serve your Creamy Spinach Feta Chicken Orzo hot, garnished with an extra sprinkle of parsley or feta if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some warm crusty bread.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days and reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
  • Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Swap chicken breasts for turkey cutlets or shrimp for a different protein variation.
  • Use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives to make this dish dairy-free while keeping it creamy.
  • Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean flavor boost.