One Pot Greek Chicken Orzo (Giouvetsi)

This One Pot Greek Chicken Orzo (Giouvetsi) is a comforting dish that features tender chicken cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Infused with fragrant herbs and spices, this hearty meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual gathering with friends.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 45

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mediterranean

Ingredients

– 500 grams chicken breasts
– 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 medium onion
– 4 garlic cloves
– 1 carrot
– 3 celery stalks
– 150 grams leek
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 1 bay leaf
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 180 ml red wine
– 500 ml chicken broth
– 400 ml passata
– 250 grams orzo
– Salt and pepper to taste
To Finish:
– Chopped fresh parsley
– Feta cheese

Instructions

Prep the Chicken:
– Season the chicken breasts with paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
– In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
– Add the chicken to the pot and brown it on both sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Incorporate Aromatics and Wine:
– In the same pot, sauté the onion until translucent.
– Add the garlic, carrot, celery, and leek, and cook until soft and fragrant.
– Stir in the tomato paste, cinnamon sticks, and bay leaf, and cook for about a minute.
– Add the orzo to the pot and fry it for 1-2 minutes to toast slightly, ensuring it’s well-coated in the paste and vegetable mix.
– Pour in the red wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, and allow it to simmer until reduced by half.
Simmer and Cook:
– Once the wine has reduced slightly, add the passata and chicken broth. Stir well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
– Place the browned chicken breasts back into the pot, submerging them in the liquid.
– Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it cook for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the orzo is tender.
– Occasionally stir the mixture to prevent sticking.
Serve and Garnish:
– Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
– Dish out the One Pot Greek Chicken Orzo into plates or bowls, ensuring each serving gets a piece of chicken and a generous scoop of orzo and sauce.
– Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crumbles of feta cheese.
– Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece in every mouthwatering bite!

Notes

– Consider using chicken thighs for a quicker cook time and enhanced flavor.
– Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking. If the mixture becomes too thick or sticks to the pot, add a little more chicken broth.
– Fresh bay leaves impart a slightly different flavor compared to dried ones. If using fresh, you may want to add an extra leaf for a stronger aroma.
– Browning the chicken is a crucial step that enhances both texture and the depth of flavor in the sauce.
– If you prefer to avoid alcohol, substitute the red wine with an equal amount of pomegranate or cranberry juice combined with a tablespoon of red wine vinegar for acidity.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.