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Easy Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Easy Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet: Quick Cozy Delight

Enjoy a quick and hearty Easy Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet packed with flavors in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds chicken breasts or substitute with shrimp
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground recommended
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano can substitute with Italian seasoning
For the Skillet
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 medium onion yellow or white onion preferred
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta whole grain preferred
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh is best
For the Flavor Boost
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes or fresh tomatoes, cooking time may vary
  • 0.5 cup kalamata olives or green olives
  • 0.5 cup feta cheese optional
  • 2 tablespoons parsley fresh, for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons dill fresh, for garnish

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into ¼ inch-thick pieces and generously season with kosher salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, and dried oregano. Let the chicken marinate while you gather and chop the remaining ingredients.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in an 8 or 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken slices and cook for about 2-3 minutes until browned on one side. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds, then remove and set aside.
  3. Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat. Pour in water, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Return the seared chicken to the skillet with sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives. Stir to combine, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Once the orzo is cooked through, season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. If desired, crumble feta cheese on top and sprinkle with parsley and dill before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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