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Mediterranean Diet Chicken Orzo

Mediterranean Diet Chicken Orzo: Your Easy One-Pan Delight

Mediterranean Diet Chicken Orzo is a vibrant one-pan meal, featuring chicken and orzo pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (or Breasts) Can use boneless skinless chicken varieties for a lighter option.
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Gluten-free orzo or other pasta types can be used.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Use low-sodium for better control of salt.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any neutral oil can be used.
For Flavor
  • 3 cloves Garlic Use fresh for the best flavor.
  • ½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Choose oil-packed for optimum tenderness; dry-packed should be rehydrated.
  • 2 cups Spinach Kale or Swiss chard can be used.
  • 1 whole Lemon Use fresh lemon juice for the best taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for a bit of heat.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Any fresh herb for garnish can be used.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your chicken thighs or breasts, searing them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm.
  2. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 minced garlic cloves and ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
  3. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the flavors of the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Toast the orzo for 1 minute. Then, pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Allow the orzo to cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender yet slightly al dente.
  5. Once the orzo is cooked, fold in 2 cups of fresh spinach and let it wilt for about 1-2 minutes. Stir gently to ensure even distribution without overcooking the spinach.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, along with the juices that have collected on the plate. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the entire mixture, adding brightness and acidity. Season with salt and pepper to taste, tossing everything together until well combined. Your flavorful Mediterranean Diet Chicken Orzo is now ready to serve!

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Consider tossing in additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and a burst of color. Customize to your taste!

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