One-Pot Greek Chicken Risoni (Orzo)
Description
One-Pot Greek Chicken Risoni is a comforting Mediterranean-inspired meal where juicy, herb-marinated chicken is simmered together with risoni (orzo pasta), tomatoes, garlic, and warm Greek spices—all in one pot. Finished with lemon, spinach, and creamy feta, this dish is bright, savory, and perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
Time & Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp ground cumin Salt & black pepper, to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
For the Risoni
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup risoni (orzo) pasta
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
1 can (400 g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2½ cups chicken stock
1 cup baby spinach
Juice of 1 lemon
To Finish
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Extra lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
Brown the Chicken
Heat a large deep pan or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside (it will finish cooking later).
Build the Base
In the same pot, add olive oil. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toast the Risoni
Stir in risoni, oregano, and chili flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
Simmer
Add crushed tomatoes and chicken stock. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
One-Pot Magic
Return the chicken (and any juices) to the pot. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the risoni is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Finish Fresh
Stir in spinach and lemon juice. Let the spinach wilt from the heat.
Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with feta and fresh herbs. Serve warm with extra lemon if you like it bright.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: ~38 g
Carbohydrates: ~42 g
Fat: ~22 g
Questions & Answers
Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works well—just be careful not to overcook it.
Q2: What can I use instead of risoni/orzo?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini or even short-grain rice work, but liquid and cooking time may vary.
Q3: Is this dish spicy?
Not at all. Chili flakes are optional and easily adjusted or omitted.
Q4: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of stock when reheating.
Q5: Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely—just skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.