Description
This Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts with whole wheat orzo, fresh vegetables, and herbs. Ready in just 30 minutes, it features a delightful medley of grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, spinach, and optional pine nuts and feta cheese, making it a wholesome, easy-to-make meal perfect for weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 1 lb chicken breasts – sliced thin and pounded
Grains & Pasta
- 1 1/2 cup whole wheat orzo (dry)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1.5 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic, minced
Oils & Nuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional if nut-free)
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
Dairy
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (optional)
Optional Substitutions
- For a dairy-free version, skip the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- For gluten-free, swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta alternative like quinoa or rice.
- For nut-free, omit the pine nuts.
Instructions
- Prepare the Orzo: Start by bringing a small pan of water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil 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, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables and Add Wine: In the same skillet, without cleaning it, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Then, add the halved grape tomatoes and the white wine. Allow the tomatoes to cook down and the wine to reduce for about 5-10 minutes until the tomatoes are soft.
- Combine Everything: Once the tomatoes are cooked, add the cooked orzo, kalamata olives, chopped spinach, and spices (black pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes) into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve and Garnish: Place the cooked chicken on top of the orzo mixture. Garnish with chopped basil, parsley, and crumbled feta cheese if using. If desired, sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top for added crunch. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and parsley really enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
- Searing the chicken: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a perfect golden sear.
- Tomato choice: Grape tomatoes are great, but you can also use cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes if needed.
- Wine substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with chicken broth or vegetable stock for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
