There’s something truly special about Mediterranean cooking—the vibrant colors, the fresh ingredients, and the comforting yet sophisticated flavors that transport you straight to a sun-drenched coastal village. This Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is a dish that embodies all of that and more.

Imagine tender, juicy chicken seasoned with fragrant herbs, nestled in a bed of perfectly cooked orzo infused with tomatoes, garlic, and warm spices. Every bite is a perfect balance of hearty, fresh, and light flavors. Whether you’re making this for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this one-pan wonder is sure to impress.

It’s a meal that feels fancy enough for guests yet simple enough for a laid-back family dinner. Plus, the easy cleanup makes it even better!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes, more flavor! This dish is made in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Packed with Mediterranean Flavors – The combination of garlic, tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs gives this dish an authentic, rich taste.
• Healthy & Satisfying – With lean protein from the chicken, fiber-rich orzo, and nutrient-packed veggies, this meal is both wholesome and delicious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – The flavors get even better the next day, making this an ideal make-ahead meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced

For the Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. These spices add a deep, aromatic flavor that will soak into the chicken as it cooks.

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear it for about 3–4 minutes on each side until it develops a golden-brown crust. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked through at this point—it will finish cooking later with the orzo. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma of garlic and onion sizzling in the pan is already enough to make your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Pour the orzo into the pan, stirring it into the onions and garlic so it gets lightly toasted—this adds an extra layer of flavor. Then, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, basil, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, making sure the orzo is evenly distributed in the pan.

Step 4: Simmer and Add the Chicken Back In

Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the pan, allowing them to sit on top of the orzo mixture. Cover and let everything simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Ingredients

Once everything is cooked, remove the pan from heat and stir in the Kalamata olives. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish for a bright, tangy finish. Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley for the final Mediterranean touch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo straight from the pan. The flavors will have melded beautifully, creating a dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean goodness. Pair it with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

• Sear the Chicken Properly – A good sear locks in moisture and enhances flavor, so don’t skip this step!
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice – The fresh citrus at the end really brings out the Mediterranean flavors.
• Make It Creamy – If you want a creamier texture, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt before serving.
• Swap the Orzo – If you don’t have orzo, you can use couscous or even quinoa for a slightly different texture.
• Let It Rest – After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle before serving.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One-Pan
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Mediterranean, High-Protein

Notes

• You can use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for an even juicier result. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• If you love extra veggies, stir in some baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes before serving.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day! The flavors will continue to develop as they sit.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This meal stores well in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day. Just reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep the orzo from drying out.

What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a Greek salad, or some warm pita bread.

Can I make this with a different protein?

Absolutely! You can swap the chicken for shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir the orzo occasionally while it’s cooking, and make sure there’s enough liquid in the pan. If it looks too dry, add a little extra broth.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the orzo may change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to loosen the orzo.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo, you’ll definitely enjoy these other flavorful dishes:

• Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet
• Keto Air Fryer Chicken Breast
• One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Harissa Chicken – A Spicy North African Delight

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. It’s vibrant, comforting, and packed with bold, fresh flavors that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or impressing dinner guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

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