If you're craving a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that captures the essence of the Mediterranean, this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet is your go-to recipe! Packed with tender chicken, creamy orzo, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.
Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish step by step!
Why You'll Love This Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet
- One-Pan Wonder : Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in a single skillet.
- Packed with Flavor : Fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and savory garlic bring the Mediterranean to your table.
- Nutrient-Rich : Loaded with protein from chicken, fiber from veggies, and complex carbs from orzo.
- Quick and Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for any day of the week.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, chopped fresh basil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips for faster cooking. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the red bell pepper and zucchini. Measure out all other ingredients so they’re ready to go.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Pro Tip: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano while cooking for extra flavor.