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Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo

Creamy Mediterranean Chicken Orzo for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

A delightful Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo combining tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce for a comforting one-pot meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Pasta
  • 1 pound Chicken breast Can substitute with turkey or tofu.
  • 1 cup Orzo pasta Can substitute with ditalini or couscous.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Alternatives include grapeseed or avocado oil.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be substituted.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Canned diced tomatoes or bell peppers can be used as alternatives.
  • 2 cups Spinach Kale or arugula can be substituted.
For the Sauce and Seasoning
  • 3 cups Chicken broth Vegetable broth is a great vegetarian option.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream Can substitute with milk or plant-based cream.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Italian seasoning or fresh herbs can be substituted.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For Garnish and Service
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley Basil or dill can be used as alternatives.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast is a good substitute for a vegan option.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour 1 cup of orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, and 3 cups of chicken broth into the skillet. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Lower heat and let it simmer for 9–11 minutes until orzo is al dente.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens.
  5. Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, stirring to incorporate evenly. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Cook for 1-2 minutes longer to warm the chicken through.
  6. Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor. Monitor orzo while cooking to avoid mushiness. Customize with additional vegetables or proteins as desired.

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