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Easy Crispy Sheet Pan Greek Chicken Recipe with Lemon Orzo and Feta

crispy sheet pan greek chicken - featured image

A quick and fuss-free Greek-inspired sheet pan dinner featuring crispy chicken thighs on lemony orzo, topped with creamy feta and fresh herbs. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Optional: 1 thinly sliced red onion
  • Optional: Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine 3 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss chicken thighs in the marinade until well coated. Let sit for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
  2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  3. Spread dry orzo evenly on a large rimmed sheet pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt. Add sliced red onion on top if using.
  4. Pour chicken broth evenly over the orzo and onions.
  5. Nestle marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on top of the orzo mixture, spacing them out evenly.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes until chicken skin is golden and crispy and orzo is tender. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove from oven and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the hot orzo and chicken. Let rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with lemon wedges.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating for crispier skin. Use a hot oven at 425°F for best results. If orzo seems dry before chicken is done, add extra broth or water and toss gently. Rest chicken after baking to redistribute juices. Can swap orzo for gluten-free pasta or quinoa for gluten-free option. Omit or substitute feta for dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek chicken, sheet pan dinner, lemon orzo, feta cheese, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, one-pan meal, crispy chicken thighs