Description
Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo. This savory combination brings together juicy chicken, tender orzo, and an array of colorful vegetables, offering a complete meal that looks as good as it tastes.Not only is this recipe nourishing and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly versatile.
Ingredients
For the Chicken :
- 4 to 5 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
For the Orzo :
- 2 cups of uncooked orzo pasta
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
Vegetables :
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- ½ cup black olives, sliced (e.g., Kalamata or green)
- ½ cup artichoke hearts, quartered (optional)
Herbs and Garnishes :
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for a richer flavor)
Suggestions for Variations :
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while sautéing the onions.
- If you prefer a more robust flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic, lemon, and herbs overnight.
- For a different texture, substitute quinoa or couscous for the orzo pasta.
- Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for added nutrition and flavor.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Mediterranean chicken and orzo dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Gather the Ingredients
Start by collecting all necessary ingredients. You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, orzo pasta, olive oil, garlic, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, spinach, chicken broth, and seasonings such as oregano, salt, and pepper.
Prep the Chicken
Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels for better browning.
Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Rub the spices into the meat to ensure they adhere.
Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer before adding the chicken.
Cook the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove Chicken and Rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add one teaspoon of olive oil if necessary. Sauté chopped garlic and diced bell pepper for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach
Add halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the spinach wilts.
Incorporate the Orzo
Stir in one cup of orzo pasta. Pour in two cups of chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer the Orzo
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir gently to combine everything well. Allow it to cook together for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
This detailed ingredient section provides precise measurements for each component required to prepare a delicious dish that serves 8–10 people.
Before you store any leftovers, let the Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo cool down at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This cooling process prevents condensation in the container, which could make your dish soggy or promote bacterial growth.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 11 mins + 30 mins additional time
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 462
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 18g