One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
A flavorful and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring chicken, orzo, and vegetables cooked in one pot.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2pieceboneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1cuporzo pasta
- 2tbspolive oil
- 1piecesmall onion, diced
- 3clovegarlic, minced
- 1piecebell pepper, diced
- 1piecezucchini, diced
- 1candiced tomatoes, drained
- 2cupslow-sodium chicken broth
- 1tspdried oregano
- 1tspdried basil
- 1/2tsppaprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4tspred pepper flakes
- 1/2cupKalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4cupcrumbled feta cheese
- 2tbspfresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2piecelemon, juiced
How to make One-Pot Healthy Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Sauté the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from the pot and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil.
Sauté the onion and garlic for about 2 minutes.
Add the bell pepper and zucchini and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the Orzo & Broth
Stir in the orzo, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Simmer Until Tender
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
Stir in Kalamata olives, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.
Sprinkle feta cheese on top and mix gently.
Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with extra parsley or feta cheese if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy this hearty Mediterranean dish!
Tips & Tricks
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs before cooking.
Use a mix of bell pepper colors for a more vibrant dish.
FAQS
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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@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, combining unexpected ingredients, and creating recipes that bring a fresh perspective to classic dishes. With a focus on sustainability, creativity, and flavor, Chefadora inspires readers to experiment in the kitchen and discover the joy of cooking with a sense of adventure. 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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