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Delicious Mediterranean Chicken Orzo served in a bowl with herbs and vegetables

Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

A warm, healthy meal featuring chicken, orzo, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, packed with Mediterranean flavors and perfect for a quick dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Thighs are juicier, breasts are leaner.
  • 1.5 cups orzo pasta You can use other small pasta, but cook time may change.
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Use high heat for a good sear.
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach Can substitute with kale for a firmer green.
  • 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped They add a nice tang to the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 each Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium) Low-sodium broth allows for better control over salt.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Add more for a spicier dish.
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove to a plate and cover.
Cooking Orzo
  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
  2. Add orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
  3. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
Finishing Touches
  1. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for 1 minute more until spinach wilts.
  2. Slice chicken and return to the pan. Toss everything together, adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

Cool to room temperature before storing. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth. Can freeze for up to 1 month, but texture is best fresh or refrigerated. For a fun combo, pair with a simple dessert like chocolate chip cookies.