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Easy Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

Easy Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
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Easy Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a quick, vibrant one-pan meal combining tender chicken breast, orzo pasta, fresh Mediterranean herbs, juicy cherry tomatoes, spinach, and tangy feta cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering fresh flavors, minimal cleanup, and balanced nutrition in a light, colorful dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Pasta & Grains

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Oils & Liquids

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth (warm)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Produce

  • 3 garlic cloves, freshly minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)

Other

  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside to rest.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes: In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet and stir it through the garlic and tomatoes, coating it in oil and flavors. Pour in the warm chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Finish with Greens and Chicken: While the orzo cooks, slice the rested chicken into bite-sized strips. Once the orzo is nearly done, stir in fresh spinach leaves, Kalamata olives, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Allow the spinach to wilt, then add the chicken back to the pan and mix gently to combine.
  5. Serve with Feta and Herbs: Remove from heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve warm and enjoy your Easy Mediterranean Chicken Orzo packed with vibrant, satisfying flavors.

Notes

  • Use warm broth to help the orzo cook evenly and absorb flavor better.
  • Don’t overcook orzo; keep it tender but slightly firm in texture.
  • Allow cooked chicken to rest to keep it moist and juicy.
  • Adjust salt carefully as olives and feta add natural saltiness.
  • Zest lemon just before using for maximum brightness and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, orzo pasta, quick dinner, one-pan meal, healthy chicken recipe, easy weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/easy-mediterranean-chicken-orzo/