Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Recipe

Mediterranean cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and healthy dishes that nourish both body and soul. One standout recipe that embodies these qualities is Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in zesty Mediterranean spices, paired with tender orzo pasta and a medley of colorful vegetables. The result is a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to gatherings with friends.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. This marinade will infuse the chicken with delicious Mediterranean flavors.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for 2 hours or longer for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Reserve the marinade for later.
3. Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step adds a lovely crust to the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
4. Bake the Chicken: After browning, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

1. Boil the Orzo: In a separate saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Add the Vegetables: During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the diced red bell pepper, zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes to the saucepan with the orzo. Allow the vegetables to cook until just tender.
3. Stir in the Spinach: Once the orzo and vegetables are cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the baby spinach. The residual heat will wilt the spinach perfectly.
4. Season: Season the orzo mixture with crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Slice the Chicken: After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips.
2. Combine: In a large serving bowl or platter, combine the cooked orzo and vegetable mixture with the sliced chicken. Drizzle the reserved marinade over the top for added flavor.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle the dish with crumbled feta cheese, sliced Kalamata olives, and chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
4. Serve: Serve the Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!

Tips for Success

• Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible. This allows the spices and lemon juice to penetrate the meat fully.
• Chicken Alternatives: Feel free to use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. Thighs will also benefit from the same marinade and cooking method.
• Vegetable Variations: The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Feel free to substitute or add vegetables based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, asparagus, or even artichokes would be great additions.
• Make It a Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Prepare the chicken and orzo in advance, and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat portions as needed throughout the week.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon for a complete Mediterranean experience.

Variations

• Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl: For a gluten-free option, substitute the orzo with quinoa. The cooking method remains the same, and quinoa adds a lovely nuttiness to the dish.
• Pasta Salad Style: Allow the orzo and vegetables to cool after cooking, then toss them with the sliced chicken and a splash of olive oil for a refreshing pasta salad. This is perfect for picnics or summer gatherings.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp: For a seafood twist, substitute the chicken with shrimp. Marinate the shrimp in the same marinade and cook them quickly on the stovetop or grill until pink and cooked through.
• Mediterranean Grain Bowl: Add cooked couscous, bulgur wheat, or farro in place of orzo for a heartier grain bowl that incorporates more texture.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo is a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings together the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean in one bowl. With its marinated chicken, tender orzo, and colorful vegetables, this recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner, a special celebration, or a meal prep for the week ahead.

The dish is versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking with various vegetables, grains, or proteins. By following this detailed guide, you’ll be able to create a delicious Mediterranean meal that will impress your family and friends.

Yield: 4

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Recipe

Print

Mediterranean cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and healthy dishes that nourish both body and soul. One standout recipe that embodies these qualities is Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in zesty Mediterranean spices, paired with tender orzo pasta and a medley of colorful vegetables. The result is a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to gatherings with friends.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• For the Orzo:
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:

• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil.
• Season the chicken with garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. (Internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C.)
• Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken, then remove it from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Orzo:

• In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
• Stir in the orzo, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, stirring occasionally.

3. Add Vegetables:

• Once the orzo is cooked, add the cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and Kalamata olives to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.

4. Combine and Serve:

• Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the orzo mixture in the skillet.
• Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.

5. Garnish and Enjoy:

• Serve warm, and enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired dish!

Notes

Variations: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or artichokes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Meal Prep: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.