Chicken, Spinach, & Feta Orzo Pasta
Chicken, Spinach, & Feta Orzo Pasta is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Zach Coen on YouTube.
Prep: 12 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 52 min
Cost: $11.08 total, $1.85 per serving
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Chicken Breast (cut into bite‑size pieces)
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (for coating chicken)
- 2 tablespoons Garlic Powder
- 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
- 1 tablespoon Oregano
- 0.5 tablespoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Ground Mustard
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (1 tbsp for seasoning, 1 tbsp for sautéing)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 4 cups Fresh Spinach (roughly chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 250 grams Orzo Pasta (dry, about 6 servings)
- 2.5 cups Chicken Broth (low‑sodium preferred)
- 150 grams Feta Cheese (crumbled)
- to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
Season the Chicken
In a large bowl combine 2 Tbsp cornstarch, 2 Tbsp garlic powder, 1 Tbsp onion powder, 1 Tbsp oregano, 0.5 Tbsp paprika, 1 tsp cayenne, 1 tsp ground mustard, 1 Tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated.
Time: PT5M
Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink (about 12 minutes).
Time: PT12M
Temperature: medium‑high heat
Set Chicken Aside
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Time: PT1M
Sauté Garlic and Spinach
In the same skillet add 1 Tbsp olive oil, then add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the chopped spinach and cook, stirring, until wilted (about 3 minutes).
Time: PT3M
Temperature: medium heat
Add Lemon Juice and Salt
Stir in 1 Tbsp lemon juice and a pinch of salt, cooking for another 30 seconds to combine flavors.
Time: PT1M
Measure Orzo
Weigh out 250 g dry orzo (approximately 6 servings) using a kitchen scale or measure by volume.
Time: PT2M
Cook Orzo in Broth
Add the measured orzo to the skillet, then pour in 2.5 cups chicken broth, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged. Cover and simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed (about 12 minutes).
Time: PT12M
Temperature: medium heat
Combine Chicken and Feta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, crumble 150 g feta over the top, and gently fold everything together until the feta begins to melt slightly.
Time: PT2M
Portion and Serve
Divide the mixture into six airtight containers. Garnish each with a pinch of the reserved feta if desired. Let cool slightly before sealing and refrigerating.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 30 g
- Carbohydrates
- 35 g
- Fat
- 12 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: High protein, Low calorie, Gluten‑containing, Dairy‑containing
Allergens: Dairy (feta), Gluten (orzo)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Chicken Breast: Turkey breast, Chicken thighs
- Instead of Cornstarch: All‑purpose flour
- Instead of Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic
- Instead of Onion Powder: Finely minced onion
- Instead of Oregano: Italian seasoning
- Instead of Paprika: Smoked paprika
- Instead of Cayenne Pepper: Red pepper flakes
- Instead of Ground Mustard: Dijon mustard (use less)
- Instead of Olive Oil: Canola oil, vegetable oil
- Instead of Garlic: 1 tablespoon pre‑minced garlic
- Instead of Fresh Spinach: Baby kale, Swiss chard
- Instead of Lemon Juice: Lime juice
- Instead of Orzo Pasta: Small rice, ditalini
- Instead of Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth, water with bouillon
- Instead of Feta Cheese: Goat cheese, cotija
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cups
- Large Skillet with Lid
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Food Scale (optional)
- Mixing Bowl
- Storage Containers
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Season the chicken thoroughly with the cornstarch‑spice mixture
- Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
- Ensure the orzo is completely submerged in broth and cooked until tender
- Add feta only after the orzo is done to keep its texture
- Portion into containers while still warm to prevent soggy lids
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use fresh baby spinach for a brighter color and milder flavor
- Crumble feta by hand for a chunkier texture
- A pinch of lemon zest added at the end lifts the whole dish
Troubleshooting
Orzo is dry or under‑cooked
Add a splash more chicken broth and continue simmering uncovered for 2‑3 minutes.
Orzo is mushy
Reduce the broth next time by ¼ cup and cook a minute less.
Chicken is dry
Do not overcook; remove chicken as soon as it is no longer pink and finish cooking in the sauce.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature; consume within 2 hours if left out
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the chicken and orzo together as directed, then divide into containers; reheat in microwave for 2‑3 minutes
- If freezing, cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals
- Add a fresh squeeze of lemon after reheating for brightness
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of chicken with spinach and feta orzo in Mediterranean cuisine?
Chicken, spinach, feta, and orzo are staple ingredients in many Mediterranean home‑cooked meals, reflecting the region’s emphasis on lean proteins, leafy greens, and cheese made from sheep or goat milk. The combination dates back to traditional Greek village cooking where simple pantry staples were combined into hearty one‑pan dishes.
What are the traditional regional variations of chicken with spinach and feta orzo in Greek cuisine?
In Greece, the dish may feature olives, sun‑dried tomatoes, or a splash of red wine. Some coastal versions replace chicken with seafood, while inland families might add herbs like dill or mint for freshness.
How is chicken with spinach and feta orzo traditionally served in Mediterranean households?
It is often served family‑style in a large shallow pan, accompanied by a side of crusty bread and a simple salad of tomatoes, cucumber, and olive oil. The feta is usually crumbled on top just before eating to preserve its tangy flavor.
What occasions or celebrations is chicken with spinach and feta orzo associated with in Mediterranean culture?
While not a formal holiday dish, it is a popular weekday family dinner and is frequently prepared for gatherings such as picnics, pot‑lucks, or after‑church meals because it can be made in bulk and reheated easily.
How does chicken with spinach and feta orzo fit into the broader Mediterranean diet tradition?
The recipe embodies the Mediterranean diet’s core principles: lean protein, plenty of vegetables, whole‑grain or pasta, healthy olive oil, and modest cheese. It provides balanced macronutrients while keeping calories moderate, making it a diet‑friendly option.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for chicken with spinach and feta orzo versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include chicken breast, fresh spinach, Greek feta, orzo pasta, extra‑virgin olive oil, and lemon juice. Acceptable substitutes are turkey breast for chicken, kale for spinach, goat cheese for feta, and small pasta shapes like ditalini if orzo is unavailable.
What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with chicken with spinach and feta orzo?
Pairs nicely with a simple Greek salad, roasted lemon potatoes, tzatziki sauce, or a side of grilled eggplant. A glass of crisp white wine such as Assyrtiko also complements the flavors.
What makes chicken with spinach and feta orzo special or unique in Mediterranean cuisine?
Its one‑pan simplicity, high protein content, and the bright contrast of tangy feta with lemon‑scented spinach set it apart from heavier stews, offering a light yet satisfying meal that can be pre‑portioned for the week.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making chicken with spinach and feta orzo?
Common errors include overcooking the chicken, which makes it dry; not submerging the orzo fully, leading to uneven cooking; and adding feta too early, which can cause it to melt into a gritty texture. Follow the timing steps closely and add feta at the end for best results.
Why does this recipe use chicken broth instead of water when cooking the orzo?
Chicken broth adds depth of flavor and extra protein, enhancing the overall richness without needing additional seasonings. Water would result in a bland base and require more salt or spices to achieve the same taste profile.
What does the YouTube channel Zach Coen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Zach Coen focuses on affordable, high‑protein meal‑prep recipes that are quick to prepare, calorie‑controlled, and suitable for busy lifestyles, often emphasizing cost‑effective grocery shopping and macro‑friendly cooking techniques.
How does the YouTube channel Zach Coen's approach to Mediterranean‑style cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Zach Coen emphasizes macro‑tracking, budget breakdowns, and batch‑cooking efficiency, whereas many other channels may focus more on gourmet presentation or elaborate techniques. His videos provide clear cost per‑meal calculations and straightforward seasoning blends for everyday home cooks.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
