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Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo: A Quick Flavor Fiesta

This Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo recipe is a quick, versatile meal featuring juicy chicken, hearty orzo, and vibrant veggies.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Consider turkey or tofu as alternatives.
For the Orzo Base
  • 1 cup Whole Wheat Orzo Gluten-free orzo is great for dietary restrictions.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can substitute with vegetable oil.
For the Flavor
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced) Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Grape Tomatoes (Halved) Cherry tomatoes or bell peppers can be used instead.
  • 1/2 cup White Grape Juice Substitute with chicken broth or water if needed.
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata Olives Green olives or capers can be swapped.
For Nutrition and Texture
  • 2 cups Spinach Kale or another leafy green can be used.
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Almonds or walnuts work well too.
  • 1/4 cup Feta Cheese (Optional) Omit for a dairy-free version.

Equipment

  • large sauté pan
  • Small pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes, until shimmering. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the hot pan and cook for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  2. In a small pot, bring water to a boil, then add the whole wheat orzo. Cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the orzo and set it aside.
  3. In the same sauté pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for about 1 minute until aromatic and slightly golden.
  4. Add the halved grape tomatoes and white grape juice to the pan, stirring gently. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and create a sweet sauce.
  5. Stir in the cooked orzo, kalamata olives, chopped spinach, and optional herbs or spices. Mix well and heat through for about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and arrange it atop the orzo mixture. Let everything meld for another couple of minutes on low heat, and sprinkle feta cheese over the top if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently.

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