Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
If you love vibrant, fresh flavors and simple meals, this Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is for you. It’s a quick recipe packed with tender chicken, savory feta, briny olives, and bright lemon. Perfect for busy weeknights or easy dinners, this dish brings the sunny Mediterranean into your kitchen. The orzo cooks right in the skillet, soaking up all the delicious juices, making cleanup a breeze.
Easy Weeknight Dinners often call for recipes like this one, which combine wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps. If you want to explore more Mediterranean-inspired dishes, check out Mediterranean Dinners on our site.
Using staples like chicken breasts, orzo pasta, olives, and fresh herbs, this recipe is both accessible and customizable. The first step is seasoning and pan-searing the chicken to build flavor. Then the orzo cooks in simmering broth right in the skillet, soaking in every bit of goodness. Adding feta, tomatoes, and parsley at the end gives the dish its vibrant character.
For more kitchen tips and protein-packed recipes, visit the Food Network.
Why You’ll Love It
Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a flavorful, wholesome dish you can make in under 40 minutes. It’s perfect for busy families and anyone who loves bold, fresh flavors. The combination of tender chicken, creamy feta, and bright lemon creates balanced taste and texture.
This one-pan meal pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread, making it a complete dinner without extra fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (substitute thighs for juicier meat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 small onion, chopped (white or yellow)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta (gluten-free or whole grain orzo as alternatives)
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth (vegetable broth for vegetarian variation)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (green olives also work)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (use vegan feta for dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add back to the skillet along with the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and warm through for 2 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the dish. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.
Expert Tips
For moist chicken, avoid overcooking. Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing. Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor. If you want more tang, add lemon zest along with the juice. To save time, use pre-chopped onion or garlic paste. Make sure to stir and check the orzo often to prevent sticking.
Storage
Store leftover Mediterranean Chicken Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo moist. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Variations
- Vegan: Use chickpeas instead of chicken and vegetable broth. Substitute vegan feta or omit cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice or quinoa.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt.
FAQ
Q: Can I make Mediterranean Chicken Orzo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and reheat gently. This makes it a great meal prep option.
Q: What other proteins can I use?
Chicken thighs, shrimp, or tofu can be excellent substitutions.
Q: How do I prevent orzo from sticking?
Toast the orzo before adding liquid and stir occasionally during cooking.
Q: Is Mediterranean Chicken Orzo suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Mild and flavorful, it’s a wholesome meal kids usually enjoy.
Q: Can I freeze Mediterranean Chicken Orzo?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Call to Action
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