Mediterranean and Greek cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple cooking techniques. From tangy feta cheese and lemon to fragrant olive oil and aromatic herbs, Greek dishes are simple, flavorful and wholesome. My Lemon Chicken Orzo is true to the essence of Mediterranean cooking dishing out juicy chicken thighs nestled in a bed of creamy orzo.
What is Orzo?
Orzo is a type of pasta that’s shaped like a grain of rice. It’s often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines and is known for its small, rice-like shape and slightly chewy, starchy texture when cooked. It’s commonly used in soups, salads, pilafs and adds a unique texture and flavor this dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Orzo:
How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo:
Ingredients:
4-5 chicken thighs (bone-in preferred but can also use boneless thighs) 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder Juice of ½ a lime
For Orzo:
2-3 tablespoon oil (or use the reserved oil from searing the chicken) 8-10 mushrooms ½ of a yellow onion chopped 2-3 garlic cloves grated 1 teaspoon red chilli flakes 2 teaspoon dry Italian seasoning Fresh thyme sprigs 2 cups orzo 4 cups water 1 cube chicken bouillon Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions: Begin by seasoning chicken thighs with a blend of spices and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Sear them in a hot pan until golden brown, then set aside. In the same pan, sauté mushrooms, onions, and garlic until aromatic. Add orzo, water, and chicken bouillon, allowing the ingredients to meld together. Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the orzo mixture, covering them gently as they simmer to perfection. To add the finishing touches, sprinkle Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs over the Lemon Chicken Orzo. Serve alongside a garlic sauce; it’s perfect sauce to go with this dish.
