Greek Lemon Chicken With Orzo & Yogurt Drizzle

Transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with this incredibly flavorful Greek Lemon Chicken with Orzo & Yogurt Drizzle! This recipe combines tender, marinated chicken thighs with a bright, zesty lemon sauce, served over a bed of creamy orzo pasta and finished with a cool, refreshing yogurt drizzle. It’s a complete meal that’s surprisingly easy to make and bursting with Mediterranean goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite.

What You’ll Need

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (600g / 1.3lb): We’re using chicken thighs because they stay incredibly moist and tender during roasting, absorbing all those delicious lemon and herb flavors. Look for thighs that are roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Olive Oil (2 Tbsp + 1 Tbsp for sauce = 45ml total): A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for both the marinade and the sauce. It provides a fruity, robust flavor and healthy fats.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (3 Tbsp total): Freshly squeezed lemon juice is *key* here! Bottled juice just doesn’t compare in terms of brightness and aroma. You’ll need the juice of about 1-2 lemons.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Minced garlic adds a pungent, savory depth to the marinade. Freshly minced is always best for maximum flavor.
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Oregano is a staple herb in Greek cuisine, lending a warm, earthy note to the chicken.
• Salt (½ tsp + ¼ tsp for sauce = ¾ tsp total): Kosher salt or sea salt is preferred for its clean flavor.
• Black Pepper (¼ tsp + ¼ tsp for sauce = ½ tsp total): Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and complexity.
• Orzo Pasta (200g / 7oz): Orzo, also known as risoni, is a rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and beautifully complements the lemon-yogurt flavors.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (480ml / 2 cups): Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Plain Greek Yogurt (120g / ½ cup): Full-fat or 2% Greek yogurt provides a creamy tanginess that’s essential to the sauce and orzo. Avoid sweetened yogurt.
• Lemon Zest (1 Tbsp): Lemon zest adds an intense citrus aroma and flavor. Be sure to zest only the yellow part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.
• Fresh Dill (2 Tbsp): Dill is another classic Greek herb, offering a fresh, slightly anise-like flavor.
• Pine Nuts (20g / 2 Tbsp): Toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Substitutions & Variations

Don’t have an ingredient on hand? No problem! Here are a few easy substitutions:

• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them.
• Orzo: If you can’t find orzo, you can use another small pasta shape like ditalini or acini di pepe.
• Greek Yogurt: If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream, but it will be less tangy.
• Fresh Dill: Parsley can be used as a substitute for dill, though the flavor will be different.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium-sized bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
2. Roast the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Transfer the marinated chicken thighs to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). The chicken skin should be lightly golden.
3. Cook the Orzo: While the chicken is roasting, bring 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Once boiling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook according to the package directions, usually around 9-10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente – firm to the bite. Drain any excess liquid from the orzo.
4. Prepare the Yogurt-Orzo Mixture: In the same saucepan (or a clean bowl), stir in ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill into the hot, cooked orzo. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine, ensuring the yogurt is evenly distributed throughout the orzo. Keep this mixture warm while you prepare the yogurt drizzle.
5. Make the Yogurt Drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of additional lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper. If the drizzle is too thick, add a few drops of water, one at a time, until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
6. Toast the Pine Nuts: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of pine nuts and toast for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them! Remove from the skillet and set aside.
7. Plate and Serve: Mound a generous spoonful of the creamy yogurt-orzo mixture onto each plate. Place a roasted chicken thigh on top of the orzo. Drizzle the yogurt sauce artfully over the chicken in a ribbon pattern. Scatter the toasted pine nuts and remaining fresh dill over the dish. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest and serve immediately. A lemon wedge on the side is a nice touch.

Why Greek Yogurt Makes All the Difference

The use of Greek yogurt in this recipe isn’t just about adding creaminess; it’s a cornerstone of Greek cuisine and contributes significantly to the dish’s flavor profile. Greek yogurt is thicker and tangier than regular yogurt due to the straining process, which removes whey. This tanginess beautifully complements the lemon, creating a bright and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chicken. It also adds a healthy dose of protein! The yogurt sauce isn’t just a topping; it’s an integral part of the dish, binding the flavors together.

Tips for the Most Flavorful Lemon Chicken

To truly elevate this Greek Lemon Chicken, consider a few extra tips. First, don’t skimp on the lemon zest! It contains essential oils that provide a much more intense lemon flavor than the juice alone. Second, use fresh dill whenever possible. The flavor difference between fresh and dried dill is substantial. Finally, allow the chicken to marinate for longer than 30 minutes if you have the time – even overnight in the refrigerator will result in a more tender and flavorful result.

Orzo: A Versatile Pasta Choice

Orzo, often referred to as ‘risoni,’ is a small, rice-shaped pasta that’s incredibly versatile. Its delicate texture makes it a perfect pairing for the tender chicken and creamy yogurt sauce. While traditionally used in soups and salads, orzo shines in this dish, absorbing the flavors of the lemon and herbs beautifully. You can substitute other small pasta shapes if needed, but orzo truly complements the Greek flavors.

The Art of Toasting Pine Nuts

Toasting pine nuts is a simple step that makes a huge difference in flavor and texture. Raw pine nuts can be a bit bland, but toasting them brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delightful crunch. Keep a close eye on them while toasting, as they burn easily. Shaking the pan frequently ensures even toasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can! However, chicken thighs tend to stay more moist during roasting. If using chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time to prevent them from drying out. About 15-20 minutes should be sufficient.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

The orzo and yogurt mixture can be made ahead of time and reheated gently. However, it’s best to roast the chicken and prepare the yogurt drizzle just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the orzo with a gluten-free orzo alternative. There are several good options available in most supermarkets.

Enjoy Your Greek Feast!

This Greek Lemon Chicken with Orzo and Yogurt Drizzle is a delightful and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The bright, zesty flavors of Greece will transport your taste buds! Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for later!

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