Use What You Have
Chicken Thigh and Orzo Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people. Ingredients are given for the original yield; amounts can be adjusted for larger or smaller portions, but cooking times remain the same.
Marinade
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon pizza seasoning (e.g., Savory Spice Pizza & Pasta Sprinkle)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Chicken & Orzo
- 1 pound chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley
- 1 cup orzo
- 1 3/4 cups chicken bone broth
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- Lemon wedge (optional, for serving)
Directions
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, honey, paprika, pizza seasoning, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and salt. Add the chicken thighs and mix to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to marinate.
- Preheat your oven to 400F (200C).
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter, melting together.
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place chicken skin-side down in the skillet, discard the remaining marinade. Cook until the skin turns golden, about 8 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and keep warm.
- Add diced onion to the skillet and saut until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds.
- Stir in chopped parsley, orzo, chicken broth, and lemon zest. Nestle the chicken, skin-side up, on top of the orzo.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Bake until the orzo is tender, approximately 30 minutes.
- Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.
Cook's Notes
The pizza seasoning used contains European basil, Mediterranean thyme, Greek oregano, California basil, and garlic. Chicken thighs hold up well at higher cooking temperatures without drying out.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 648
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
- Sodium: 987mg
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 40g
- Vitamin C: 115mg
- Calcium: 141mg
- Iron: 4mg
- Potassium: 849mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes. Consult a healthcare professional for medically restrictive diets.
History and Origins
The Chicken Thigh and Orzo Skillet traces its roots to the Mediterranean style of one-pan cooking, where grains and proteins are combined to create hearty yet bright meals. While not tied to a single traditional dish, it draws inspiration from Greek giouvetsi and Middle Eastern pilaf traditions, blending the convenience of modern cooking with flavors that have been cherished for centuries. The use of yogurt-based marinades has long been associated with methods that tenderize meat naturally, giving the chicken a depth of flavor characteristic of ancient culinary practices.
Regional Variations
Across the Mediterranean, versions of this dish appear with regional twists. In Greece, orzo is often prepared with tomato-rich sauces, while in Turkey it may be seasoned with warm spices such as cinnamon or allspice. Italian renditions sometimes include white wine and fresh herbs like basil or rosemary. The American adaptation tends to lean on lemon, garlic, and a skillet-to-oven technique, offering a balance of brightness and richness. Each region adapts orzo-based meals to local produce, herbs, and cooking habits, creating diverse interpretations with shared roots.
Differences From Similar Dishes
Unlike risotto, which requires continuous stirring and slow addition of broth, this orzo skillet relies on passive cooking, absorbing flavors in the oven. It also differs from traditional pasta dishes in that orzo functions as both starch and base for the entire entre, rather than being paired with a separate sauce. Compared to rice pilaf, orzo offers a softer, more delicate texture that binds closely with aromatic ingredients like lemon zest, parsley, and garlic.
Where It Is Commonly Served
This dish is especially popular in home kitchens where quick, nourishing meals are valued. Its also found in contemporary bistros and Mediterranean-inspired restaurants that emphasize rustic, wholesome plates. The one-pan nature makes it ideal for weeknight family dinners, yet its rich aroma and colorful presentation also lend it well to casual gatherings or relaxed weekend meals.
Interesting Facts
Orzo, despite its rice-like appearance, is actually pasta traditionally shaped to resemble grains. Its name derives from the Italian word for barley. The pairing of chicken thighs with yogurt marinade is not only flavorful but also scientifically effective, as yogurts mild acidity helps break down muscle fibers more gently than citrus alone. Another interesting detail is that orzo absorbs surrounding flavors exceptionally well, making skillet dishes like this one burst with layered aromas. The combination of lemon, spices, and broth creates a naturally glossy finish without added cream, giving the dish both comfort and freshness.
FAQ about Chicken Thigh and Orzo Skillet Recipe
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