Description
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, feta cheese, basil, olive oil, oregano, garlic
powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Pour the chicken broth over the mixture and stir to combine. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the orzo to al dente according to package directions, then drain. In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded chicken, cooked orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, chopped red onion, crumbled feta, and fresh basil. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated. Transfer this mixture to the greased baking dish. Gently pour the chicken broth evenly over the entire casserole. Finally, top with a generous layer of grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad of arugula or romaine with a light lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more rustic meal, serve it alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping. It also makes an excellent filling for warmed pita pockets or as a standalone lunch the next day.
How-to Summary
In summary, this is a simple dump-and-bake casserole. Cook the orzo, mix all ingredients (except Parmesan and broth) in a bowl, transfer to a dish, pour broth over the top, sprinkle with cheese, and bake covered for 20-25 minutes. Finish by baking uncovered for 5-10 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells work well. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti.
How should I cook the chicken? You can boil, bake, or use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Ensure it’s cooked through and shredded before adding.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese or ricotta salata are good alternatives. For a milder flavor, try mozzarella pearls.
Can I freeze this dish? It’s not recommended as the orzo can become mushy upon thawing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the orzo initially: Cook it only to al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid and cook in the oven.
- Skipping the broth: The broth is crucial for keeping the casserole moist; don’t omit it.
- Using pre-crumbled feta: For the best flavor and texture, buy a block of feta and crumble it yourself.
- Not letting it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking. This lets the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Orzo Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining Mediterranean flavors in a simple, one-dish meal. It’s reliably delicious, family-friendly, and perfect for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings. With its balanced ingredients and straightforward method, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
