Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet
This Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a one-pan meal packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Tender chicken, seasoned with Mediterranean spices, is seared and simmered with orzo, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a hearty, balanced meal. It’s an easy, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep & Cooking Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Orzo Skillet:
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ small red onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
1. Pat the chicken dry and season with oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Orzo:
1. In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic and saute for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes, toasting slightly.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juice), and stir to combine.
5. Add red pepper flakes, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Simmer the Skillet:
1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo.
2. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F).
4. Finish & Serve:
1. Remove from heat and stir in the feta cheese, parsley, and lemon juice.
2. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~450-500 kcal
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Fat: ~15g
Saturated Fat: ~4g
Fiber: ~5g
Sodium: ~600mg
Notes & Variations:
Chicken Options: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for extra juiciness.
Orzo Substitute: Use quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a gluten-free option.
Extra Veggies: Add baby spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for more nutrients.
Make it Creamy: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt before serving for extra richness.
Serving Ideas: Pair with a Greek salad,warm pita bread, or tzatziki sauce.
This one-pan Mediterranean chicken and orzo skillet is a simple, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!