A fresh, comforting one-pot dinner inspired by Greek flavours

There’s something special about simple, flavour-led cooking — especially when fresh herbs are involved. This lemon and tarragon chicken orzo is inspired by comforting Greek one-pot dishes like Youvetsi, combining tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, bright lemon, and fragrant tarragon in a light, savoury chicken stock.

It’s an easy one-pot chicken orzo recipe that’s perfect for midweek dinners, yet fresh and elegant enough to serve to guests. Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and vibrant Mediterranean flavours make this a dish you’ll come back to again and again.

Serves

2 people

(As a guide: allow around 75g orzo and 200ml chicken stock per serving.)

Ingredients

• 150g orzo
• 400ml chicken stock
• 1 chicken thigh, diced
• 2–3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 50ml dry white wine
• 1 lemon (juice, plus zest of half)
• 1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan 160°C).
2. Heat the olive oil gently in an ovenproof dish with a lid.
3. Add the diced chicken and chopped garlic, frying lightly for a few minutes until just coloured.
4. Stir in the orzo, coating it in the oil, chicken, and garlic.
5. Deglaze the pan with the white wine
6. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped tarragon, mixing well.
7. Pour in the chicken stock and season with salt and pepper.
8. Cover with the lid and bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
10. Finish with extra chopped tarragon if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Swap chicken thigh for breast depending on preference.
• Add spinach or peas in the final 5 minutes for extra colour and nutrition.
• Finish with a little grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for a richer flavour.

A bright, herby twist on a comforting Greek classic — perfect for an easy dinner that still feels thoughtfully cooked.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out, and keep an eye on ManchesterFoodTourist for more simple, flavour-led dishes.