Description
This Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a vibrant, protein-packed meal bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors. Juicy chicken, briny olives, sweet grape tomatoes, and creamy feta come together in a one-pan wonder that’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup whole wheat orzo
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Cook the Orzo: While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics & Tomatoes: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute, then add grape tomatoes and white wine. Cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes soften and wine reduces slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in cooked orzo, olives, spinach, fresh herbs, spices, pine nuts, and feta cheese. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Assemble & Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and serve over the orzo mixture. Garnish with extra feta and fresh herbs. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, omit the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Substitute white wine with chicken broth if needed.
- Toast pine nuts in a dry pan before adding for extra depth of flavor.
- Adjust spice level by increasing or decreasing red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pan, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean