Description
A flavorful and easy one-pan Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo recipe, packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red, yellow, or orange)
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil.
- Sauté the onion and garlic for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for another 3 minutes.
- Cook the Orzo
- Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with juice and chicken broth.
- Add oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Combine and Finish
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
- Stir in lemon juice, feta cheese, and olives.
- Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Protein Options: Swap chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu.
- Vegetable Additions: Add spinach, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free orzo alternative or quinoa.
- Dairy-Free: Omit feta or use a dairy-free substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, One-Pan
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, orzo pasta, one-pan meal, healthy dinner, easy Mediterranean recipe