Save Tender chicken thighs braised in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, paired with orzo pasta, fresh herbs, and a touch of feta for a vibrant Mediterranean meal.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 bone in skin on chicken thighs, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sauce & Aromatics: 4 garlic cloves minced, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, Zest and juice of 1 large lemon, 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- Orzo & Additions: 1 cup orzo pasta, ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives halved, ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese, ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2:
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Step 3:
- Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken skin side down and sear for 4 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer chicken to a plate.
- Step 4:
- In the same skillet reduce heat to medium and add garlic and onion. Sauté for 2 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 5:
- Stir in oregano, thyme, lemon zest, and juice. Cook for 1 minute.
- Step 6:
- Add orzo and stir to coat in aromatics. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and nestle chicken thighs (skin side up) into the orzo.
- Step 7:
- Scatter olives around the pan. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 20 25 minutes, until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
- Step 8:
- Remove from oven. Let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with feta and parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.
Save Notes
Pairs well with a crisp Greek white wine such as Assyrtiko.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven Wooden spoon Cutting board and knife Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (orzo) dairy (feta) and may contain traces of tree nuts (olives) Double check labels for hidden allergens.
Save Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of chicken is best for this dish?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal to keep the meat flavorful and moist while developing a crispy skin.
- → Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs can be used but reduce cooking time by about 5–7 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- → How do the Kalamata olives affect the flavor?
Kalamata olives add a briny, slightly fruity note that complements the lemon and herbs beautifully.
- → Is feta cheese necessary for this dish?
Feta adds a creamy, tangy depth; however, you can omit it or substitute with a similar salty cheese if desired.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Light salads or steamed greens work well, plus a crisp Greek white wine like Assyrtiko enhances the flavors.
- → Can I prepare this dish without an ovenproof skillet?
A Dutch oven or any oven-safe heavy-bottomed pan works well for even cooking and braising.