Introduction
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo with Creamy Whipped Feta is a dish that perfectly balances freshness and comfort. The brightness of lemon, the warmth of garlic, and the tenderness of chicken come together with orzo pasta to create a meal that feels both light and satisfying. I find this recipe especially appealing when I want something flavorful without heaviness. The whipped feta adds a creamy, tangy contrast that elevates the entire dish and makes it feel restaurant-worthy.
When I first tested this recipe, I was surprised by how well the lemon infused the orzo as it cooked, giving every bite a subtle citrus note. The chicken stays juicy, and the garlic ties everything together beautifully. This dish works well for weeknight dinners, yet it is impressive enough to serve when guests are over. It is comforting, vibrant, and full of layered flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is made mostly in one pan, saving time and cleanup. It offers a refreshing lemon-garlic flavor profile, tender chicken, and a creamy feta topping that adds richness without heaviness. It is versatile, balanced, and suitable for many occasions.
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Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo with Creamy Whipped Feta – A Bright and Comforting One-Pan Meal
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo with Creamy Whipped Feta is a bright and comforting dish featuring tender chicken, zesty lemon, garlic-infused orzo, and a smooth, tangy whipped feta topping.
Ingredients
- 500 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for whipped feta)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
- Pour in chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
- In a blender or food processor, blend feta, Greek yogurt, and olive oil until smooth.
- Serve orzo topped with whipped feta and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Adjust lemon juice to taste for more or less tang.
- Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
- Whipped feta can be made ahead and refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breast is the main protein, offering a lean and tender base that absorbs the lemon and garlic flavors well during cooking.
Orzo pasta acts as the heart of the dish, cooking directly in the pan and soaking up the broth and lemon juice for maximum flavor.
Olive oil helps sear the chicken and adds a smooth, fruity undertone.
Butter enhances richness and rounds out the citrus acidity.
Garlic provides aromatic depth and savory warmth that defines the dish.
Lemon juice adds brightness and balances the creamy and savory elements.
Chicken broth allows the orzo to cook while building a flavorful base.
Feta cheese is used for the whipped topping, bringing tanginess and creaminess.
Greek yogurt helps create a smooth, airy whipped feta texture.
Salt sharpens and enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Fresh parsley brings freshness and a clean finish.
Directions
Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add butter and garlic, cooking briefly until fragrant. Stir in the orzo, coating it well in the garlic butter.
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, allowing it to warm through and meld with the orzo.
In a separate bowl, blend feta cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy. Spoon the whipped feta over the orzo and chicken before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the orzo. Add whipped feta fresh if possible for best texture.
Variations and Customizations
This dish is highly adaptable. You can add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes during the final cooking stage for extra color and nutrition. For a deeper flavor, a small amount of lemon zest can be added to the orzo.
If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well and remain especially juicy. For a dairy-free option, skip the whipped feta and finish the dish with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs.
You can also adjust the consistency by adding more broth if you prefer a creamier orzo. Each variation keeps the bright lemon-garlic profile while allowing flexibility.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 36 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 710 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Balance the Lemon
Add lemon juice gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
Do Not Overcook Orzo
Stir occasionally and remove from heat once tender.
Whipped Feta Texture
Blend until smooth for a light, airy consistency.
Rest the Chicken
Allow the chicken to rest briefly before slicing to retain juices.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, but add the whipped feta just before serving for best texture.
Can I use store-bought crumbled feta?
Yes, but block feta blends more smoothly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well with a small amount of added broth.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Substitute orzo with a gluten-free small pasta or rice.
What vegetables work best in this dish?
Spinach, tomatoes, and zucchini pair particularly well.
Can I bake this instead of using the stovetop?
The stovetop method is recommended for best texture and control.
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo with Creamy Whipped Feta is a well-balanced dish that combines freshness, comfort, and elegance. Its bright flavors, creamy contrast, and tender chicken make it a recipe worth keeping on repeat. It is simple enough for everyday cooking yet impressive enough for special meals.
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