This Greek Orzo Chicken Bowl is fresh, zesty, and full of Mediterranean flavor. Juicy grilled chicken is served over a bed of tender orzo pasta with crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a light lemon-oregano dressing. It’s a colorful, satisfying bowl that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week.
Main Ingredient: Chicken Breast or Thighs (Lightly Marinated & Grilled)
Chicken marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs gives this bowl its signature Greek character. Both thighs and breasts work well—choose based on your preference for juiciness or leanness.
Ingredients Breakdown
Protein
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Base
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- Salt for boiling water
- Optional: drizzle of olive oil or squeeze of lemon post-cooking
Fresh Produce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, finely sliced
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1 handful fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Optional: baby spinach or arugula
Dairy
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing (Optional but Recommended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or a pinch of garlic powder
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Grill pan, cast iron skillet, or outdoor grill
- Pot (for boiling orzo)
- Knife and cutting board
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 15–20 minutes
- Total time: Around 35–40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 15–30 minutes while prepping the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Orzo
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the orzo and cook according to package directions (usually 7–9 minutes).
- Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice to keep it from sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 75°C).
- Let rest for a few minutes, then slice.
4. Prep the Fresh Components
- While the chicken is resting, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, olives, onion, and herbs.
- Crumble the feta and set everything aside.
5. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar/lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add a little mustard or garlic powder if desired.
6. Assemble the Bowl
- Start with a scoop of orzo in each bowl.
- Layer on the grilled chicken slices.
- Add chopped vegetables, olives, and feta cheese.
- Drizzle with the lemon-oregano dressing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and an extra squeeze of lemon if desired.
What to Serve With It
- Warm pita bread or flatbread
- Tzatziki or hummus on the side
- A simple Greek salad or cucumber yogurt salad
- Chilled white wine or a lemon-mint spritzer
Tips and Variations
- Swap orzo with quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for different textures
- Use grilled shrimp or falafel for a seafood or vegetarian version
- Add roasted chickpeas or pine nuts for extra crunch
- Make it dairy-free by skipping the feta or using a plant-based alternative
- Add a dollop of hummus or tzatziki right on top for creaminess
Storage and Meal Prep
- Store all components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days
- Or pre-assemble bowls without dressing and store in the fridge
- Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, or reheat chicken and orzo separately
Plating and Presentation Ideas
- Use wide shallow bowls to layer ingredients neatly
- Arrange vegetables and feta in colorful sections around the chicken
- Finish with a drizzle of dressing, chopped herbs, and lemon wedges
- Add a light dusting of smoked paprika or sumac for visual contrast
Final Thoughts
This Greek Orzo Chicken Bowl is a bright, satisfying way to bring Mediterranean flavors into your daily meals. It’s balanced, full of texture, and endlessly adaptable. Whether for a light dinner or a make-ahead lunch, this bowl is simple to prepare and always delivers a burst of sunshine in every bite.
