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One-Pan Greek Chicken and Risoni
Isabella

One-Pan Greek Chicken and Risoni

This one-pan Greek chicken and risoni recipe features juicy roasted chicken thighs baked directly with tender orzo in a lemony, herb-infused broth. Finished with spinach, parmesan, and optional feta, it’s a comforting Mediterranean-inspired dinner with bold flavor and minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken Marinade
  • 1.2 kg chicken thigh cutlets bone-in, skin-on
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp garlic freshly minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp brown sugar optional
  • 1 tsp sea salt flakes
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly cracked
Risoni Base
  • 1.5 cups risoni (orzo pasta)
  • 3.5 cups chicken stock hot, low sodium
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cups baby spinach leaves firmly packed
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • feta cheese crumbled, for serving

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). In a large baking dish, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken thighs, turning to coat well in the marinade. Arrange skin-side up and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
  3. Roast the chicken for 35 minutes until golden and lightly crisp.
  4. Baste the chicken with pan juices and remove excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons.
  5. Scatter the risoni around the chicken and pour in the hot stock and lemon juice, keeping chicken skin exposed.
  6. Bake for 18–20 minutes until the risoni is tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
  7. Remove the chicken, gently stir spinach and parmesan into the risoni until wilted and creamy.
  8. Return chicken to the dish, rest briefly, then top with feta and serve.

Notes

Let the dish rest a few minutes after baking to allow excess liquid to absorb. Gluten-free orzo can be substituted if needed. Finish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra brightness.