This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Orzo dish is packed with tasty chicken, olives, tomatoes, and flavorful herbs. The orzo pasta gives it a lovely twist and makes it super filling!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, but you can use chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just remember to adjust cooking times as breasts cook faster.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is creamy and comfy in this dish, but if you don’t have it, try using rice or small pasta shapes like ditalini, or even quinoa for a gluten-free choice.
Kalamata Olives: These add a briny flavor, but green olives can work too if that’s what you have. Just pick your favorite type!
Feta Cheese: While feta brings a tangy kick, you can skip it if you’re dairy-free or swap it with crumbled goat cheese for a different taste.
How Do I Get Juicy and Flavored Chicken?
Getting juicy chicken starts with proper seasoning and cooking. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfect:
- Season the thighs well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Don’t rush the searing process! Brown each side for 5-7 minutes over medium heat. This locks in moisture.
- Using a lid while simmering helps keep the chicken juicy, so try not to skip this step!
How to Make Easy Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Orzo:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30-40 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 50 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a warm, flavorful dish ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Chicken:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until both sides are browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cooking the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one more minute, until it becomes fragrant. This will add a wonderful flavor to your dish!
3. Toasting the Orzo:
Now, it’s time to add the orzo pasta. Stir it into the onion and garlic mixture, allowing it to toast lightly for about 2 minutes while stirring regularly. This step gives the pasta a nice nutty flavor.
4. Adding the Liquid and Vegetables:
Pour in the chicken broth, and then add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, oregano, and any additional salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
5. Simmering the Chicken and Orzo:
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once your dish is ready, remove it from the heat and gently stir in the chopped parsley. If you love feta cheese, sprinkle the crumbled feta on top for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Serving:
Serve the Mediterranean chicken orzo warm, and enjoy this delicious, hearty meal!
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs with Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as breasts may cook a little faster. Aim for around 4-6 minutes per side until they are fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Yes, whole wheat orzo is a great alternative! Just note that it may take a bit longer to cook, so check the package instructions and adjust your simmering time accordingly. The flavor will be slightly nuttier, but it’s a healthy choice!
What Should I Do with Leftover Chicken Orzo?
Leftover chicken orzo should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavors vibrant. Just sauté the veggies until tender before adding them to the orzo!
