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Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipe

Delicious Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipe for Cozy Dinners

This Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipe features tender chicken and vibrant ingredients for a satisfying dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Substitute with chicken breasts if desired.
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Brown rice can be substituted but will require longer cooking time.
For the Freshness
  • 2 cups Spinach Kale or arugula can be used as alternatives.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Fresh cherry tomatoes can be a refreshing alternative.
For Flavoring
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be substituted with another cooking oil.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Lime juice can be an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Herbs (e.g., Oregano, Parsley) Fresh herbs provide a brighter taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding a splash of olive oil. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, searing them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove and let rest.
  2. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil and sauté minced garlic over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 3-4 minutes until spinach wilts.
  4. Mix the cooked orzo into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in lemon juice and sprinkle fresh herbs over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Plate the orzo mixture, slice the rested chicken thighs and place them atop. Garnish with parsley and optional lemon wedges or crumbled feta cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Make a batch ahead for meal prep or adjust the recipe with seasonal vegetables. Enjoy warm for the best flavor experience.

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