Name: Skillet Tzatziki Chicken with Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs or breast; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 6 cloves garlic, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 pinch chili flakes (use to taste); Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons salted butter; 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme; 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 3 cups low sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/2 cup mixed herbs, such as basil and thyme; 1-2 cups tzatziki sauce; Fresh basil, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 26 reviews

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to make, and will impress anyone at your dinner table, you’ve got to try this Skillet Tzatziki Chicken with Orzo Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but comes together without a fuss—think tender, paprika-spiced chicken nestled on a bed of herby, sun-dried tomato orzo, all crowned with creamy, refreshing tzatziki. Trust me, once you try this combo, it’s going to be on repeat in your kitchen.

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Why This Recipe Works

Flavor Harmony: The combination of smoked paprika, lemon, and fresh herbs gives the chicken a bright and smoky depth that pairs perfectly with the creamy tzatziki.
One-Skillet Convenience: Cooking everything in a single oven-safe pan cuts down on cleanup and keeps the orzo perfectly infused with chicken juices and herbs.
Texture Contrast: Tender, juicy chicken with the slightly chewy orzo and crunchy sun-dried tomatoes makes every bite interesting and satisfying.
Versatility: With options to swap chicken cuts or adjust spice levels, you can easily tailor this recipe to your tastes or dietary needs.

Skillet Tzatziki Chicken with Orzo, Greek chicken skillet, easy Mediterranean chicken, flavorful chicken and orzo, healthy chicken dinner - A close-up top view of a black cast iron pan filled with three layers: the bottom layer is golden brown rice with some grains scattered unevenly; the middle layer consists of several pieces of browned grilled chicken with a slightly crispy texture; the top layer shows bright green fresh basil leaves and small dill sprigs scattered across, along with dollops of white creamy sauce unevenly spread. A thin lemon slice is tucked among the rice and chicken near the bottom right. A silver fork partially rests on the chicken in the upper right area. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface with a soft beige and yellow striped cloth visible on the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

All the ingredients come together with purpose—from the quality olive oil that helps seal in moisture, to the fresh thyme that adds a subtle earthiness. These ingredients play off one another to deliver a meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture, so grab the freshest you can find, especially when it comes to herbs and chicken.

Skillet Tzatziki Chicken with Orzo, Greek chicken skillet, easy Mediterranean chicken, flavorful chicken and orzo, healthy chicken dinner - Flat lay of extra virgin olive oil in a small white ceramic bowl, vibrant red tomato paste in a small white bowl, a small pile of smoked paprika powder, six peeled garlic cloves, a whole fresh lemon with zest and two lemon wedges, a small pinch of red chili flakes on white ceramic dish, kosher salt and black peppercorns scattered next to each other, two plump boneless raw chicken thighs, a small pat of salted butter, a few fresh thyme sprigs, dry orzo pasta scattered neatly, chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes in a small white bowl, a small white bowl filled with golden chicken broth, mixed fresh herbs including basil and thyme, and a small white bowl containing creamy tzatziki sauce, all arranged symmetrically with realistic proportions on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Extra virgin olive oil: Use good quality here; it adds flavor and helps sear the chicken.
Tomato paste: This deepens the sauce’s flavor and adds a subtle sweetness.
Smoked paprika: Gives that signature smoky warmth that makes the chicken pop.
Garlic: Fresh chopped garlic delivers aromatic punch.
Lemon zest and juice: Brighten the dish and balance the smoky spices.
Chili flakes: Adds just enough heat without overpowering the rest.
Kosher salt & black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Boneless chicken thighs or breast: Thighs stay juicy and tender; breasts, if cooked carefully, make a leaner option.
Salted butter: Adds richness and helps to brown the chicken beautifully.
Fresh thyme: Earthy and fragrant, it complements the chicken and orzo perfectly.
Dry orzo pasta: Absorbs all those delicious juices from the chicken and broth.
Oil packed sun-dried tomatoes: These bring sweetness and umami—don’t skip them.
Low sodium chicken broth: Infuses the orzo with flavor; low sodium helps you control salt levels.
Mixed fresh herbs (basil and thyme): Added at the end for freshness.
Tzatziki sauce: The cool, creamy star that tops each serving, balancing the spices and richness.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the things I love about the Skillet Tzatziki Chicken with Orzo Recipe is how adaptable it is. You can tweak it to fit your tastebuds or dietary needs, and it still turns out great. I often switch up the herbs or spice it up more when I’m craving a little heat.

Variation: When I want a lighter meal, I swap the chicken thighs for breasts and keep a close eye on the cooking time to prevent drying out.
Vegetarian Twist: I’ve swapped chicken for sautéed mushrooms and tofu before, adding a splash more lemon and herbs to keep that bright flavor profile.
Spice Level: If you love heat, add extra chili flakes or a touch of cayenne — just remember to balance with the cool tzatziki.
Herb Swaps: Using dill instead of basil brings a different but equally delicious vibe—gives it a classic Greek flavor punch.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Skillet Tzatziki Chicken with Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Start by tossing the chicken pieces in a bowl with olive oil, tomato paste, smoked paprika, chopped garlic, lemon zest, chili flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure every piece is coated evenly—this mix is where your flavor magic begins. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes while you prep other ingredients; this quick marinade makes a big difference in the final taste.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then add the chicken, spreading them out so they don’t touch. Sear each side for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown—you want that rich color and caramelized flavor. During the last couple of minutes, toss in the butter to melt around the chicken and add a silky finish. Then, take the chicken out and set aside.

Step 3: Toast and Cook the Orzo

With the chicken out of the pan, add your dry orzo and fresh thyme into the skillet. Stir and let the orzo toast for about a minute—this little step adds nuttiness that makes the dish special. Next, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper, then give it a good stir incorporating fresh herbs like basil and thyme. Before heading to the oven, nestle the seared chicken back in, along with any juices from your plate.

Step 4: Bake It All Together

Pop the whole skillet into a preheated oven at 400° F and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. This allows the orzo to absorb the broth and the chicken to finish cooking thoroughly. Keep an eye to make sure the chicken doesn’t dry out—going for that perfect juicy bite.

Step 5: Serve with a Generous Dollop of Tzatziki

Once out of the oven, serve the chicken and orzo directly from the skillet topped with plenty of creamy tzatziki sauce. Don’t be shy here—the tangy tzatziki is what ties all those bold flavors together. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a fresh pop and makes it look restaurant-worthy.

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Tips from My Kitchen

Don’t Skip the Tomato Paste: It might seem small, but it adds so much depth—stir it well into the marinade.
Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: I always cook everything in my cast iron to make transitions easy and boost flavor.
Fresh Herbs Last: Adding fresh basil and thyme at the end keeps their flavor vibrant and not cooked away.
Watch the Chicken Cooking Time: Overcooked chicken can dry out—check for doneness early if you’re using chicken breasts.

How to Serve Skillet Tzatziki Chicken with Orzo Recipe

Skillet Tzatziki Chicken with Orzo, Greek chicken skillet, easy Mediterranean chicken, flavorful chicken and orzo, healthy chicken dinner - A black cast iron pan holds a dish with four browned chicken pieces placed on top of a layer of golden-brown cooked rice mixed with small pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. The rice layer has a slightly oily and textured look, with some herbs scattered throughout. White creamy sauce is dotted over the chicken and rice in small dollops. Fresh green basil leaves are placed on top of the chicken and rice, along with slices of yellow lemon positioned near the chicken. The pan rests on a white marbled surface with fresh basil and dill sprigs around it, and a white cloth with yellow stripes partially visible beneath the pan handle. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love adding a little extra fresh basil and sometimes a lemon wedge on the side for that extra zing. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or dill can be a perfect green pop too. And of course, never forget a generous spoonful of tzatziki right on top—that cool creaminess ties everything together and balances the spices.

Side Dishes

Since this skillet meal has everything you need, I like to keep sides simple—something like a crisp Greek salad or roasted veggies. If you want to go classic, some warm pita bread is always a hit to scoop up all that delicious sauce and orzo.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I plate the chicken thighs on a wide platter with the orzo spread around, topped with tzatziki and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a fun, festive touch. It not only looks stunning but adds a sweet, crunchy surprise that guests love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they keep well for up to 3 days. The orzo soaks up moisture over time, so it’s best to add fresh tzatziki just before serving again for maximum creaminess.

Freezing

This recipe freezes pretty well, especially the chicken and orzo. Just freeze in portions without the tzatziki and thaw overnight in the fridge. When reheating, I recommend adding fresh tzatziki right before serving instead of freezing it with the dish.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the leftovers on the stove or in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying out. Stir the orzo occasionally to keep it from sticking. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water helps loosen the orzo if it seems dry.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this Skillet Tzatziki Chicken with Orzo Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you’re careful not to overcook them since they can dry out faster. Keep an eye on them during searing and baking, and consider slightly reducing baking time to maintain juiciness.
What can I use if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers or even finely chopped ripe tomatoes can add a nice burst of sweetness and acidity. Just adjust the quantity to balance the dish.
Is it important to use an oven-safe skillet?

Using an oven-safe skillet allows you to sear on the stove and then finish cooking in the oven without transferring pans, which keeps more flavor in the dish and saves cleanup. A cast iron skillet is ideal, but a stainless steel pan that is oven-safe works too.
Can I make the tzatziki sauce from scratch?

Definitely! Homemade tzatziki is easy to whip up with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill or mint. It’s so worth it for the fresh flavor, but store-bought works great too when you’re short on time.

Final Thoughts

I remember the first time I made this Skillet Tzatziki Chicken with Orzo Recipe—it quickly became a family favorite. It’s one of those dishes that feels wholesome and a bit indulgent at the same time, thanks to the creamy tzatziki and the perfectly cooked chicken. I love how it brings easy Mediterranean vibes to a busy weeknight. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be hooked, just like I am. Don’t forget to experiment a bit to make it your own, and enjoy every bite!