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–+ servings

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo

A delightful dish that tantalizes your taste buds with its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, featuring tender chicken, savory olives, and fresh vegetables all tossed with orzo.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Use extra virgin for enhanced flavor.
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Slice thinly and pound for even cooking.
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt Essential for seasoning the chicken.
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper Adds a subtle kick to the dish.
  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat orzo A nutritious pasta alternative rich in fiber.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil To sauté garlic and vegetables.
  • 1/2 tablespoon garlic Minced to release its aromatic essence.
  • 2 cups grape tomatoes Halved to provide sweetness and color.
  • 1/4 cup white grape juice Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives Pitted and sliced to enhance the Mediterranean flair.
  • 2 cups spinach Chopped to incorporate greens into the dish.
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts Optional if nut-free, provides crunch and richness.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil Chopped to bring freshness to the meal.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley Chopped for color and flavor contrast.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper For additional seasoning balance.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano A classic herb in Mediterranean cuisine.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for those who enjoy some heat.
  • 1/2 cup feta Optional but highly recommended for creaminess and tang.

Method
 

  1. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to a large sauté pan. Heat over medium-high heat for about three minutes or until the olive oil starts to shimmer.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the preheated pan. Cook for five minutes on one side before flipping them over to cook an additional five minutes until golden brown.
  3. While the chicken is cooking, bring a small pot of water to a boil on another burner. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, then drain it when done.
  4. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan, placing it on a clean plate while retaining any oil and browned bits in the pan. Add another tablespoon of olive oil, heating it for two minutes before adding minced garlic; sauté for one minute then stir in halved grape tomatoes along with white grape juice, cooking until softened.
  5. Once your tomatoes are tender, mix in the cooked orzo along with sliced kalamata olives, chopped spinach, fresh herbs, dried spices, pine nuts (if using), and feta cheese into the pan with tomatoes; stir everything together until well combined.
  6. Slice your chicken into strips and serve it atop the flavorful orzo mixture as a stunning presentation; garnish with additional feta if desired before diving in!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

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