Delicious Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Orzo

The aroma of a sizzling chicken breast mixed with fragrant herbs is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Imagine sitting down to a plate of tender Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Orzo, where every bite transports you to a sun-soaked terrace overlooking the azure sea. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience — a delightful dance of flavors and textures that brings warmth to any dining table.

Let me take you back to that unforgettable summer when I tried this recipe for the first time. It was at my cousin’s wedding in Greece, where the food was as vibrant as the celebration itself. The Mediterranean Chicken made its grand entrance, and I knew right then that I had found my new favorite dish. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, this recipe promises a culinary adventure everyone will enjoy.

I still remember my friends’ faces lighting up when they first tasted this dish at my housewarming party; it’s definitely a crowd-pleaser.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 pieces for a hearty meal; they cook quickly and absorb flavors wonderfully.
• Fresh Garlic: Use about 4 cloves of fresh garlic for an aromatic punch; avoid pre-minced ones if possible.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness and color; pick ripe ones for the best results.
• Baby Spinach: A couple of handfuls will bring freshness and nutrients; look for vibrant green leaves.
• Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with the chicken; opt for whole wheat or regular based on preference.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up the entire dish; skip bottled juice for maximum flavor.
• Dried Oregano: A classic herb in Mediterranean cooking; it adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking and drizzling; it enhances richness and taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors; adjust according to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering your ingredients. Chop the garlic finely and halve the cherry tomatoes while your orzo cooks according to package instructions until al dente.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Add seasoned chicken breasts and sauté until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Once the chicken is cooked through, toss in minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant, watching those tomatoes pop like tiny fireworks.

Mix in Orzo and Spinach: Stir in cooked orzo along with fresh baby spinach into the skillet. Mix well until the spinach wilts down beautifully into a vibrant green.

Season with Lemon & Herbs: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything and sprinkle dried oregano generously. Stir again and allow it all to marry together for about 2 minutes over low heat.

Serve Hot & Enjoy!: Plate your colorful creation while it’s still warm and serve immediately. Garnish with extra oregano or lemon wedges if desired!

And just like that, your delicious Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Orzo is ready!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the orzo in the same pan while preparing your zesty sauce.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out orzo for quinoa or add veggies like spinach and cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

It was one of those glorious summer evenings when my friends gathered around my dinner table, and I served this Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo. Their smiles said it all; I knew I hit a home run!

FAQ

What can I substitute for orzo in this Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Orzo?

You can use quinoa, farro, or even couscous as a delightful alternative to orzo.

Can I make this Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Orzo ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything a day ahead and reheat before serving for maximum flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and keep the same delicious flavors intact.

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Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Orzo

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Savor the vibrant flavors of this Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo, a delightful dish perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 handfuls baby spinach
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Cook orzo according to package instructions; chop garlic and halve tomatoes.
2. Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook seasoned chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Add Garlic & Tomatoes: Stir in minced garlic and halved tomatoes; sauté until fragrant.
4. Mix Orzo & Spinach: Add cooked orzo and fresh spinach to the skillet, mixing until spinach wilts.
5. Season & Serve: Squeeze lemon juice and sprinkle oregano over the mixture. Stir briefly, then serve hot, garnished as desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg