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Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet
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Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a quick and wholesome one-pan meal that features tender chicken breasts, orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and classic Mediterranean herbs, packed with vibrant lemon and garlic flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a fast, flavorful weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Pasta

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta

Oils & Fats

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Aromatics & Herbs

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups baby spinach or kale

Liquids

  • 2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth

Optional Toppings

  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and a little olive oil. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and release their juices. Stir in spinach or kale until wilted.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Add the dry orzo directly into the skillet along with the broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet on top of the orzo mixture.
  4. Simmer Everything Together: Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes over low heat, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Check occasionally to ensure the liquid hasn’t evaporated completely; add a bit more broth or water if needed.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs over the top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors can fully meld.

Notes

  • Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Use quality chicken or vegetable broth for better flavor.
  • Toast the dry orzo lightly with garlic in olive oil before adding broth to enhance nuttiness.
  • Add broth gradually to avoid overcooking or soggy pasta.
  • Let the skillet rest off heat before serving to allow the orzo to absorb all the juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean, chicken, orzo, quick dinner, one-pan meal, healthy, easy recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/mediterranean-chicken-and-orzo-skillet/