Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 6 reviews

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a vibrant and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender shredded chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh baby spinach combined with juicy tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, tangy capers, and creamy feta cheese. This easy-to-make dish delivers bold Mediterranean flavors in a quick 30-minute recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 1 cup small tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.), halved
  • ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1 Tbsp capers, drained
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

Liquid Ingredients

  • 3 cups chicken broth

Main Protein and Greens

  • 2 cups cooked shredded or rotisserie chicken
  • 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach

Cheese and Seasoning

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Heat the olive oil and butter in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the halved tomatoes, Kalamata olives, drained capers, dried oregano, minced garlic, and uncooked orzo pasta. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, allowing the butter to melt and the ingredients to blend their flavors.
  2. Add chicken broth and cook orzo: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and let it bubble briefly before adding the remaining 2 cups. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking and ensuring even cooking.
  3. Incorporate chicken, spinach, and feta: Stir in the shredded chicken, fresh baby spinach, and crumbled feta cheese. Remove the pot from heat and cover it. Let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt, feta to soften, and orzo to absorb any remaining liquid.
  4. Season and serve: Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the vibrant Mediterranean flavors at their best.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut or cook your own shredded chicken in advance.
  • If you prefer, substitute baby spinach with fresh kale or arugula for a different green.
  • Adjust salt carefully as the feta, olives, and capers add natural saltiness.
  • Stirring frequently during orzo cooking prevents sticking and ensures even texture.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit chicken and use vegetable broth instead.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/mediterranean-chicken-orzo-recipe/