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Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo

A flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables cooked together for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add garlic, red bell pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Stir in orzo pasta and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Pour in chicken broth, add dried oregano and thyme, stir well, and bring to a simmer.
  7. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat, stir in fresh parsley, and check seasoning.
  10. Serve topped with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking. Serve with a side of Greek salad or warm pita bread.