Name: Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 2 cups baby spinach or kale; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

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Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a vibrant, one-pan meal full of tender chicken, hearty orzo pasta, and bright, bold Mediterranean flavors like lemon, olives, tomatoes, and herbs. I love how everything cooks together for a dish that’s satisfying, colorful, and loaded with flavor in every bite. It’s fresh, comforting, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both simple and elegant—easy enough for busy nights but impressive enough to serve to guests. The orzo soaks up all the savory juices and lemony goodness, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. The pops of briny olives, sweet cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta take it over the top. It’s also all made in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, diced
Orzo pasta
Chicken broth
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
Baby spinach or kale
Lemon zest and juice
Dried oregano
Salt and black pepper
Crumbled feta cheese
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I season the chicken with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through. I set it aside.
In the same pan, I add a little more oil if needed and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
I stir in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes to bring out its nutty flavor.
I add the broth, cherry tomatoes, and olives, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. I bring it to a simmer and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 10–12 minutes).
I stir in the spinach until wilted, then return the chicken to the pan.
I finish with lemon zest, lemon juice, crumbled feta, and fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 and takes around 35–40 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a wholesome dinner or a cozy lunch the next day.

Variations

I add artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flavor.
I swap the chicken for shrimp or chickpeas for a different protein option.
I use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian if omitting the chicken.
I stir in a splash of cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy version.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo soft and moist.

FAQs

Can I use rice instead of orzo?

Yes, but I adjust the liquid and cooking time since rice takes longer to cook than orzo.

What’s the best cut of chicken for this?

I like chicken thighs for juiciness, but breasts work well too—especially if I don’t overcook them.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It holds up well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for prepping ahead.

Can I make it without feta?

Yes, I leave it out or substitute with a dairy-free alternative if needed.

What does orzo taste like?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta with a tender, slightly chewy texture. It absorbs flavor well and cooks quickly.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a wholesome, flavorful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and comforting textures in one easy skillet meal. I love how bright, balanced, and filling it is without being heavy, and how every bite feels like a little trip to the Mediterranean. Whether I’m cooking for family or just myself, this is one of those recipes I always come back to.