Name: Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

This Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines juicy chicken, tangy feta cheese, fresh vegetables, and tender orzo pasta. It’s perfect for a light and healthy dinner, with bold flavors that transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how this recipe brings together such a colorful array of ingredients. The juicy chicken, paired with the soft orzo, crunchy cucumbers, and briny Kalamata olives, creates a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. The tangy feta cheese adds a creamy touch, while the fresh parsley and lemon juice give it a refreshing burst of flavor. It’s a quick, nutritious, and tasty meal that’s light enough for summer but filling enough to be enjoyed year-round. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with minimal prep time!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon dried oregano

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup orzo pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup cucumber, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain the orzo and set it aside.

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, feta, and parsley. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.

Drizzle the lemon juice over the salad and toss again to incorporate the flavors.

Serve the orzo mixture with sliced chicken on top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

If I’m in the mood for a little variation, there are a few options to tweak this dish:

Swap the chicken breasts for grilled chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

I can use quinoa or couscous in place of the orzo if I prefer a different type of grain.

Add roasted red peppers, artichokes, or even a handful of arugula for a different twist.

If I want it a bit spicier, I can throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or add some sliced jalapeños for a kick.

Storage/Reheating

This dish keeps well for a couple of days in the fridge. I like to store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, I simply pop it in the microwave for a minute or so, or I heat it on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep the orzo moist. If I’m making this in advance for meal prep, I often store the chicken separately to keep it from becoming too dry.

Related Recipes:

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is perfect for meal prep! I often make it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to keep the chicken and orzo separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the best texture.

What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo?

This dish is a meal on its own, but I sometimes enjoy serving it with a light side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors. A side of grilled vegetables or hummus would also pair nicely.

Can I use different cheese instead of feta?

Yes, if I’m not a fan of feta, I can use goat cheese, ricotta, or even a shredded Parmesan. While it won’t give the same tangy flavor, it still adds a creamy richness to the dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The orzo pasta used in this recipe is made from wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. However, I can easily swap in gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, and I can add any vegetables I have on hand. Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach would be great additions.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is one of my go-to recipes when I want something light, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of juicy chicken, tender orzo, and fresh vegetables makes it a perfect dish for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare and packed with Mediterranean flavors that I just can’t get enough of. Whether I’m enjoying it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, it’s always a hit!

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