Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo – A Hearty and Flavorful Dish

There’s something truly special about Mediterranean cuisine—the vibrant flavors, the fresh ingredients, and the way every bite transports you to sun-drenched coastal villages. This Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is a dish that embodies all of that warmth and richness in one comforting meal.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

Picture a skillet filled with juicy, golden-brown chicken, simmering in a fragrant tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, onions, and Mediterranean herbs. Add in orzo pasta, which soaks up all those incredible flavors, and you have a meal that is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

If you’ve never cooked with orzo before, you’re in for a treat! This tiny, rice-shaped pasta adds a delicate texture to the dish, making it a wonderful alternative to rice or traditional pasta. Combined with tender chicken and a rich, savory sauce, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold Mediterranean flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder – Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Packed with Flavor – The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and Mediterranean spices makes every bite irresistible.
• Easy & Quick – Ready in about 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting & Satisfying – Orzo absorbs the delicious sauce, creating a hearty, comforting meal.
• Healthy & Nutritious – Loaded with lean protein, wholesome carbs, and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• ½ cup kalamata olives, sliced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (for garnish)

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage since it will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Flavorful Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Now, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in the dried oregano, thyme, and cumin, letting the spices toast for a minute to bring out their full aroma.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo pasta directly into the skillet, stirring to make sure it’s well coated in the sauce. Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce and pasta. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking.

Step 4: Add the Final Touches

Once the orzo is tender and has absorbed the sauce, stir in the sliced kalamata olives and fresh parsley. Let the dish sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld together.

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top just before serving for a creamy, tangy finish.

Helpful Tips

• Brown the Chicken Well – Searing the chicken before adding it to the sauce locks in moisture and creates a rich, flavorful base.
• Stir the Orzo Occasionally – Since orzo is a small pasta, it can stick to the bottom of the pan. Stir every few minutes while it simmers.
• Adjust the Seasonings – Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and spices if needed.
• Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Use Fresh Herbs – If you have fresh oregano or thyme, feel free to substitute them for dried herbs for an even fresher taste.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Mediterranean

Notes

• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil plays a key role in Mediterranean cuisine, using a good-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
• Make It Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for chickpeas or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.
• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Orzo continues to absorb liquid even after cooking, so remove it from heat when it’s just tender to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together for the best taste.
• Double the Recipe for Meal Prep: This dish stores and reheats well, making it a great choice for batch cooking and meal prep.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to loosen up the sauce.

Freezer:

This dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even rice. Just adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and add extra juiciness. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Is this dish spicy?

No, this recipe is mild and flavorful. If you enjoy a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo, here are some other Mediterranean-inspired dishes you might enjoy:

• Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

• Harissa Chicken – Spicy North African Chicken

• Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo: A Cozy Mediterranean Delight

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is a perfect combination of hearty, comforting, and nutritious. It’s a simple, one-pan meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cooking or a longtime fan, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

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