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Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet: Quick & Flavorful Dinner

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet offers a quick and flavorful one-pan dinner, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 370
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Lean protein sliced for even cooking; shrimp is a great substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhance flavors; adjust to taste with sea salt if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Granulated Garlic Offers depth; you can substitute with garlic powder.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Contributes lovely herbal notes; fresh oregano works well.
For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Adds richness and flavor; can swap for avocado oil.
  • 1 medium Onion Sweetness and depth from yellow or white onion; shallots are an alternative.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Freshly minced for a fragrant kick; jarred minced garlic can save time.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Forms the hearty base of the dish; gluten-free options include small pasta shapes.
  • 2 cups Water Essential for cooking the pasta; substituting with chicken broth enhances flavor.
For the Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Brightens the dish; fresh lemon is best.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Imparts rich tomato flavor; oil-packed varieties add more depth.
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives Provide a briny bite; green olives are a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese Adds creaminess and tang; goat cheese can substitute.
For Garnishing
  • 2 tablespoons Parsley Optional fresh herbs for a lively finish.
  • 2 tablespoons Dill Optional fresh herbs for a lively finish.

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Skillet

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Slice chicken breasts into thin, even slices and season with kosher salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, and dried oregano.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the seasoned chicken for 2-3 minutes per side.
  3. Lower the heat and add the remaining olive oil, sauté diced onion until translucent, then stir in minced garlic.
  4. Stir in orzo pasta, season with a pinch of salt, then add water and lemon juice. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Fold in browned chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender.
  6. Garnish with black pepper, crumbled feta cheese, and parsley and dill before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 370kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Enjoy with a refreshing salad or as a standalone dish. For best results, monitor the heat to avoid sticking.

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