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Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet
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A quick and easy Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet recipe combining tender chicken, orzo pasta, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, fresh spinach, and vibrant Mediterranean herbs. This wholesome one-pan meal is bursting with bright flavors, nutrition, and perfect for busy weeknight dinners or family meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta & Grains

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta

Vegetables & Fruits

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Others

  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and thyme. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until crisp and golden on the outside, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and toss in minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add halved cherry tomatoes, stirring occasionally until they soften and start releasing their juices, roughly 3-4 minutes.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Add dry orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the oil and tomato mixture. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook until the orzo is tender, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Combine and Add Greens: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the Kalamata olives and fresh spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the flavors meld, about 2-3 minutes. Squeeze lemon juice over the skillet and sprinkle lemon zest for a fresh finishing touch.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm directly from the skillet for a casual, comforting meal everyone will love.

Notes

  • Use room temperature chicken to ensure even cooking and juicy results.
  • Do not overcook the orzo to avoid mushiness and maintain perfect texture.
  • Reserve some chicken broth to loosen the dish if it gets too thick while cooking.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
  • Finish off with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for extra aroma and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, orzo skillet, one-pan meal, healthy dinner, quick chicken recipe, easy Mediterranean recipe

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/mediterranean-chicken-and-orzo-skillet/