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Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo: A Flavor-Packed Protein Boost

Discover a vibrant Mediterranean Chicken Orzo dish that combines tender chicken and creamy orzo for a delightful protein-packed meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo Base
  • 1 cup orzo pasta can substitute with farro, quinoa, or whole wheat pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil avocado oil can be used for a milder flavor
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust according to dietary needs
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper preferably fresh
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano can swap for Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil use fresh for bolder aroma
For Flavor and Freshness
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed is best
  • 2-3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved for cooking
  • 4 cups baby spinach washed
For Finishing Touches
  • 1/2 cup black olives kalamata or green olives can be alternatives
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese can substitute with goat cheese or omit
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
  4. Sauté the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet for 2-3 minutes undisturbed, then stir and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Pour in lemon juice and add minced garlic to the skillet, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  7. Lower heat to medium, add cooked orzo, spinach, and olives; toss for about 2 minutes until combined.
  8. Remove from heat, sprinkle feta and parsley over the mixture and let it soften slightly.
  9. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on low heat with a splash of water or broth.

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