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Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo - Easy 30-Minute Recipe

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo – Easy 30-Minute Recipe

Description

Greetings food lovers! Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure with a healthy, easy-to-make, and flavorful dish? This Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo recipe is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a delicious one-pan dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes! Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean cuisine or simply love healthy chicken dishes, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

Scale

 

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb chicken breasts – sliced thin and pounded
  • 1 1/2 cup whole wheat orzo (dry)
  • 1/2 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cup grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional if nut-free)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese (optional)

Optional substitutions:

  • For a dairy-free version, skip the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • To make it gluten-free, swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta alternative like quinoa or rice.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the pine nuts.

Instructions

Step 1: 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.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. While the oil heats up, 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.

Step 3: 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.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the tomatoes are cooked, add the cooked orzo, kalamata olives, chopped spinach, and spices (pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes) into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Place the cooked chicken on top of the orzo mixture. Garnish with chopped basil, parsley, and crumbled feta cheese (optional). If you like a little extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts over the top. Serve hot and enjoy!

Equipment

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 even canned diced tomatoes in a pinch.
  • Wine substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with chicken broth or vegetable stock for extra flavor.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/mediterranean-chicken-and-orzo-easy-30-minute-recipe/