Looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal? This One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is the perfect combination of lean protein, fiber-rich grains, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. This dish is packed with tender chicken, wholesome orzo, and a blend of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and feta cheese for a balanced, nutrient-dense meal.
By using just one pot, cleanup is minimal, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a meal prepper or cooking for your family, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo Recipe
- One-Pot Convenience: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup!
- Healthy and Nutritious: A balanced mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Mediterranean Flavors: Rich in olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes!
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions :One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sauté the onions until soft, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
- Add the orzo to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes to toast it slightly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cover and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Stir in the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and spinach.
- Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and crumbled feta cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
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Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, spinach, and herbs will enhance the flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a little Greek yogurt or extra feta for a creamier texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu.
Health Benefits
This dish is packed with Mediterranean diet staples, offering multiple health benefits:
- Chicken: A lean protein source that supports muscle growth.
- Orzo: A fiber-rich pasta that aids digestion.
- Spinach: High in iron, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that reduces inflammation.
Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dish: Serve with a side of tzatziki or a Greek salad.
- Beverage: Pairs well with a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemon-infused water.
FAQs: One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.
2. Can I use whole wheat orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great option for added fiber and nutrition.
3. What can I use instead of feta cheese?
Try goat cheese, Parmesan, or omit the cheese for a dairy-free version.
4. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Orzo doesn’t freeze well as it can become mushy. If you plan to freeze, cook the orzo separately and add it when reheating.
5. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sauté the chicken and aromatics first, then add the broth and orzo. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes, then quick-release the pressure and stir in the remaining ingredients.
Conclusion: One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
This One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal effort and cleanup, you can enjoy a wholesome dinner packed with Mediterranean goodness. Try it out today and enjoy the rich flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite!
Read more: Best Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Print
One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo is a flavorful and nutritious dish packed with protein, whole grains, and fresh vegetables. Juicy, seasoned chicken is seared to perfection and simmered in a rich, herb-infused tomato broth with tender orzo. With Mediterranean flavors like garlic, lemon, and olives, this easy one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Orzo and Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ⅓ cup kalamata olives, sliced
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Sear the Chicken:
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown (it will finish cooking later). Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables and Orzo:
- In the same skillet, add another 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Sauté the onion for 2 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in the zucchini and grape tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Add the orzo and toast it for 1 minute until lightly golden.
3. Simmer with Chicken:
- Pour in the chicken broth, oregano, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice, stirring well.
- Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
4. Finish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and stir in the kalamata olives.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with extra lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Substitutions: Swap orzo for brown rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Extra Flavor: Add a handful of baby spinach in the last 2 minutes of cooking for extra greens.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, One-Pot Meal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 42g
Keywords: Mediterranean Chicken, One-Pot Orzo, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Easy Chicken Dinner, Mediterranean Diet