Start by heating olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to shimmer slightly but not smoke; this indicates it’s ready for the ingredients. The sound of the oil bubbling will soon follow, setting the stage for flavors to come.
Next, add the oregano, garlic powder, lemon peel, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir them together, allowing the spices to toast in the hot oil. You’ll know they’re ready once you catch a whiff of their fragrant aroma — it fills the kitchen with delightful Mediterranean notes.
Now it’s time to introduce the chicken. Add the cubed chicken breasts to the pan, stirring well to coat them in the spice mixture. Cook the chicken for about four minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to turn golden brown. This step is key to locking in flavor!
Once the chicken is beautifully browned, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the uncooked orzo pasta, Greek olives, and minced garlic. Give everything a good mix to combine. The broth will help cook the pasta and add richness to the dish.
Increase the heat to high, bringing the mixture to a boil. Watch for bubbles to form, signaling that the pasta will begin to cook. This is an exciting moment as the smells intensify!
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet partially with a lid. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the orzo will soak up the broth, and the chicken will become tender and juicy.
Check for doneness by ensuring the pasta is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through. The dish should be creamy while still holding its shape.
When you’re satisfied with the texture, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh spinach leaves and feta cheese. Cover it again for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the cheese to warm up, creating a wonderful melty effect.
Finally, give your Greek Chicken Skillet a gentle stir to mix in the spinach and feta. If desired, top with additional feta for a touch of elegance.
Serve your masterpiece hot, and watch as everyone digs in eagerly!
