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Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet: Quick Dinner Delight

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet, a one-pan meal, delivers bold flavors and healthy ingredients in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts Shrimp can be a quicker alternative.
  • Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • Granulated Garlic Substitute with fresh minced garlic if desired.
  • Dried Oregano Thyme can work as an alternative.
For Cooking
  • 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
  • 1 medium Onion A diced medium onion; shallots can substitute.
  • Garlic Cloves Freshly minced or pressed.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Orzo Pasta Opt for whole grain or rice for gluten-free.
  • 2 cups Water Essential for achieving consistency.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice Vinegar can substitute.
For the Mix-ins
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes Oil-packed ones add more richness.
  • Kalamata Olives Green olives can substitute.
  • Feta Cheese Goat cheese can be swapped.
For Garnish
  • Fresh Herbs (Parsley and Dill) Optional but delightful.

Equipment

  • 8- or 10-inch skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Slice the chicken breasts into ¼ inch-thick pieces, season with kosher salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, and dried oregano. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of EVOO in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in batches and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. Lower the heat to medium, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, toss in the diced onion, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Add orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat with onion and garlic. Season with salt, pour in water and lemon juice. Simmer and stir occasionally for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Return browned chicken with juices back to the skillet. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and olives. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid absorbed.
  6. Remove the lid, taste and adjust seasoning. Crumble feta on top and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make sure to season the chicken generously and monitor cooking time to avoid dryness. Fresh herbs at the end enhance the flavor significantly.

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