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Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo: A Wholesome Dinner Delight

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a quick and nutritious dinner packed with tender chicken, hearty orzo, and vibrant veggies.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs juicy and flavorful, can substitute with chicken breasts
For the Pasta and Veggies
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta can use gluten-free orzo
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach can be swapped with kale or Swiss chard
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes can use fresh tomatoes if unavailable
For Flavors and Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice fresh juice is ideal
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil extra virgin recommended
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced, fresh garlic is ideal
  • 1 teaspoon Herbs (e.g., oregano, basil) substitute with Italian seasoning if desired
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • pot

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Start by prepping all your ingredients for the Mediterranean Chicken Orzo. Chop the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, then coarsely chop the fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Measure out the orzo pasta and set everything aside in separate bowls.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken thighs, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary, then toss in minced garlic and your herbs of choice like oregano and basil. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Stir in the orzo and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  5. Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in the cooked orzo, fresh spinach, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix gently over medium heat until spinach wilts, roughly 2-3 minutes.
  6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture, stir well, and heat for another minute, ensuring it’s warm but not overcooked.
  7. Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezing is also an option for up to 3 months.

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