A Flavorful, Easy, and Nutritious Dinner
If you’re looking for a quick, wholesome, and delicious dinner, this One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is the perfect choice. Bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors, this dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy orzo for a well-balanced meal. Plus, it’s all made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Orzo:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
- In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, oregano, and paprika.
- Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the zucchini, bell pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Cook the Orzo
- Add the orzo to the pot, stirring to coat it with the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add the Final Ingredients
- Once the orzo is tender, stir in the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, salt, and black pepper.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot and let everything heat through for 2 minutes.
- Squeeze in lemon juice and gently stir.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat orzo?
Yes! Whole wheat orzo is a great way to add extra fiber to this dish.
What can I substitute for orzo?
You can use quinoa, couscous, or even rice if you prefer.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to keep the orzo from drying out.
Notes & Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, lemon juice, and quality feta cheese enhance the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more oregano, lemon, or spice to match your preference.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
This One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is a perfect weeknight meal packed with nutrients and flavor. Enjoy this stress-free, delicious dish with minimal effort and maximum taste!
