One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo

c
@chefspalette

A flavorful and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring chicken, orzo, and vegetables cooked in one pot.

One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
45min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = one portion)

Main Ingredients

  • boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
    boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
    2piece
  • orzo pasta
    orzo pasta
    1cup
  • olive oil
    olive oil
    2tbsp
  • small onion, diced
    small onion, diced
    1piece
  • garlic, minced
    garlic, minced
    3clove
  • bell pepper, diced
    bell pepper, diced
    1piece
  • zucchini, diced
    zucchini, diced
    1piece
  • diced tomatoes, drained
    diced tomatoes, drained
    1can
  • low-sodium chicken broth
    low-sodium chicken broth
    2cups
  • dried oregano
    dried oregano
    1tsp
  • dried basil
    dried basil
    1tsp
  • paprika
    paprika
    1/2tsp
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
    Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • red pepper flakes
    red pepper flakes
    1/4tsp
  • Kalamata olives, sliced
    Kalamata olives, sliced
    1/2cup
  • crumbled feta cheese
    crumbled feta cheese
    1/4cup
  • fresh parsley, chopped
    fresh parsley, chopped
    2tbsp
  • lemon, juiced
    lemon, juiced
    1/2piece

How to make One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo

Sauté the Chicken

  1. Step 1

    Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.

  2. Step 2

    Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Remove from the pot and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

  1. Step 1

    In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil.

  2. Step 2

    Sauté the onion and garlic for about 2 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Add the bell pepper and zucchini and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.

Add the Orzo & Broth

  1. Step 1

    Stir in the orzo, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.

  2. Step 2

    Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Simmer Until Tender

  1. Step 1

    Add the cooked chicken back to the pot, reduce heat, and let simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the broth is absorbed.

Finish with Flavor

  1. Step 1

    Stir in Kalamata olives, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.

  2. Step 2

    Sprinkle feta cheese on top and mix gently.

Serve & Enjoy

  1. Step 1

    Garnish with extra parsley or feta cheese if desired.

  2. Step 2

    Serve warm and enjoy this hearty Mediterranean dish!

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

303.8kcal (15.19%)

Protein

24.3g (48.5%)

Carbs

25.5g (9.27%)

Sugars

3.0g (6%)

Healthy Fat

10.5g

Unhealthy Fat

2.5g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs before cooking.

  2. Use a mix of bell pepper colors for a more vibrant dish.

FAQS

  1. How can I make One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo gluten-free?

    To make this One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo gluten-free, simply substitute the orzo pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative, such as rice or quinoa. Ensure that the chicken broth you use is also gluten-free.

  2. What are some good side dishes to serve with Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo?

    This Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo pairs beautifully with a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of tzatziki sauce. You can also serve it with crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the delicious flavors.

  3. How should I store leftovers of One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo?

    To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

  4. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein in this Mediterranean recipe?

    Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken with other proteins such as shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for shrimp, which cooks much faster.

  5. What is the cooking process for making One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo?

    To make this dish, start by browning the seasoned chicken in olive oil. Remove it and sauté onions and garlic, then add bell peppers and zucchini. Stir in orzo, diced tomatoes, and spices, followed by chicken broth. Add the chicken back, simmer until the orzo is tender, and finish with olives, lemon juice, parsley, and feta cheese.

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c

@chefspalette

Chefspalette is a culinary artist known for her innovative fusion recipes that merge traditional flavors with modern twists. Writing for Chefadora involves exploring diverse cuisines,...

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