Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo (Print)
Savory chicken with orzo, tomatoes and olives in a Mediterranean-inspired dish that's ready in just 30 minutes.
# Ingredients:
→ Proteins
01 -
1 lb chicken breasts, sliced thin and pounded
→ Grains
02 -
1 1/2 cups whole wheat orzo (dry)
→ Vegetables
03 -
1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
04 -
1.5 cups grape tomatoes, halved
05 -
1 cup chopped spinach
→ Herbs & Spices
06 -
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
07 -
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
08 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
09 -
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
10 -
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Pantry Items
11 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
12 -
1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
13 -
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
14 -
1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)
15 -
1/2 cup feta cheese (optional)
# Directions:
01 -
Bring a small pan of water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 -
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Add the halved grape tomatoes and white wine. Cook for 5-10 minutes until tomatoes soften and wine reduces.
04 -
Add the cooked orzo, kalamata olives, chopped spinach, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
05 -
Place the cooked chicken on top of the orzo mixture. Garnish with chopped basil, parsley, and crumbled feta cheese if using. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch. Serve hot.
# Notes:
01 -
Fresh basil and parsley significantly enhance the Mediterranean flavors
02 -
Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding chicken for optimal searing
03 -
Cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes can substitute for grape tomatoes
04 -
Chicken or vegetable broth can replace white wine if preferred