A Flavor Explosion Awaits You!
Ever tasted a dish that whisked you straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean? Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo does just that! With its creamy, vibrant flavors and delightful textures, this one-pan wonder steals the show without taking a ton of your time. If quick, mouthwatering meals are your jam, you’ll want to stick around for this recipe.
Why Make This Recipe
Here are a few reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this dish.
- Easy Cleanup: Who wants to deal with a mountain of dishes? Not you! This recipe only demands one pan, leaving you more time to savor your meal.
- Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters at the table will find their taste buds dancing. Chicken, orzo, and fresh veggies? Sounds like a dream!
- Affordable Ingredients: You can whip this up without breaking the bank. Just simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor — what more do you need?
Ingredients:
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1½ cups (280 g) orzo pasta
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cups (90 g) fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup (70 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cups (700 ml) chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your culinary masterpiece:
- Pat the chicken dry and season it with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Remove to a plate and cover.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for 1 minute more, just until the spinach wilts.
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan. Toss everything together, adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm!
How to Make Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo (Overview)
This dish is as simple as it sounds! Start by seasoning and searing your chicken to golden perfection. While that’s happening, you’ll sauté garlic, toast orzo, and simmer it in chicken broth. Finally, mix in your greens and tomatoes, slice the chicken, and stir it all together for that beautiful homemade harmony. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!
How to Serve Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
Picture this: a colorful plate full of golden orzo speckled with vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Serve it up warm, garnished with bright green parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a zesty side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that goodness! Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you.
How to Store Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This delicious dish keeps neatly in the fridge for about 3–4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or microwave. If it gets a little too thick, just add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy!
Tips to Make Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
- Chicken Alternative: You can swap in turkey or even tofu if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Herb Variations: Mix in herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- Add More Veggies: Bell peppers or zucchini add great texture and color.
- Lemon Love: Zest and juice an extra lemon for that zippy brightness.
Variation
Want to switch things up? Turn this into a vegan dish by using chickpeas instead of chicken! You can also try adding some roasted red peppers or olives for an added Mediterranean twist that’s totally drool-worthy.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the orzo and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. Combine them right before serving.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta alternative. Just check the cooking times!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the chicken dry and season it with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Remove to a plate and cover.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for 1 minute more, just until the spinach wilts.
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan. Toss everything together, adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm!
