Vegetable & Chicken Youvetsi
Comfort food and heritage meet in this hearty Vegetable & Chicken Youvetsi—a Mediterranean twist on the classic Greek baked pasta dish. Featuring orzo, chicken, and seasonal vegetables simmered in olive oil, this longevity-inspired recipe channels the flavor and balance of the Ikaria Blue Zone diet. My Greek Table celebrates dishes like this—wholesome, delicious, and perfect for family meals rooted in Greek tradition and health-forward eating.
If you like this recipe, you'll love Vegetarian Yiouvetsi, Greek Lemon Chicken Orzo Bowl, and Shrimp Yiouvetsi with Greek Saffron and Curry.
Ingredients
- ½ cup extra virgin Greek olive oil or more, as needed
- 2 large onions chopped
- 2 large red bell peppers
- 1 large green bell pepper
- 3 medium zucchini
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 heaping teaspoon paprika
- 1 cinnamon stick or ½ teaspoon grated cinnamon
- 1 nutmeg berry or ½ teaspoon grated nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 28- ounce can chopped tomatoes with their juices
- 1 cup orzo medium grain
- 1 ½ cups store-bought or homemade chicken souvlaki
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- For garnish: 1 cup crumbled feta cheese optional
Instructions
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Cut peppers and zucchini into chunks and half moons.
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Heat olive oil in a large braising pan over medium heat. Add onions and a pinch of salt, cook until translucent, then add garlic, peppers, and zucchini. Season with salt.
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Pour in wine and cook until alcohol evaporates. Stir in tomatoes, oregano, bay leaves, paprika, cinnamon, pepper, and nutmeg.
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Add 2 cups water. Stir in orzo and cook until tender but al dente, adding water if needed to prevent sticking.
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After about 20 minutes, add chicken and parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve warm, garnished with feta and extra olive oil.
Love chicken? Check out my online class “Wing It! – Great Mediterranean Chicken!“
Notes
Vegetable & Chicken Youvetsi showcases the Mediterranean diet’s focus on vegetables, quality olive oil, herbs, and balanced protein—a wholesome family dish that supports longevity and Greek culinary heritage.
