Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo
Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo is a vibrant, one-pan dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Tender chicken breasts are sautéed with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, then baked to perfection with orzo pasta, creating a comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, delivering a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will transport you to sun-soaked shores.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 medium red onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté diced red onion until translucent; add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo pasta and cherry tomatoes. Add water or broth as per package instructions and bring to a simmer.
- Place seasoned chicken on top of the mixture, drizzle lemon juice over everything, and sprinkle oregano evenly.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Carefully fold in fresh spinach until wilted before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg