Name: Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 3 cups chicken broth; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and black pepper to taste

Bright, zesty, and deeply satisfying, this Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a one-pan wonder that captures the soul of coastal cuisine. Juicy marinated chicken, briny olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and lemony herbs come together in a tender bed of orzo pasta. It’s the kind of dish that feels luxurious but comes together in under an hour.

Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or impressing guests on the weekend, this recipe offers a balanced blend of textures and bold flavors. You can make it ahead or enjoy it hot and fresh out of the skillet. It’s proof that wholesome doesn’t have to mean boring.

What Kind of Chicken Works Best for Mediterranean Chicken Orzo?

For maximum flavor and tenderness, boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal. They stay juicy during searing and infuse the orzo with rich flavor. However, if you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts also work beautifully—just be mindful not to overcook them.

Ingredients for the Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
2 teaspoons dried oregano
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
3 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo (1)

How To Make the Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Marinate and Sear the Chicken

Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and lemon zest. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side). Remove and let rest.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add remaining oil. Sauté the onions until soft, then stir in garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo. Toast for 1-2 minutes until orzo is slightly golden.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook the Orzo

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Lower heat and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Combine and Garnish

Slice the rested chicken and return to skillet. Add olives, lemon juice, and sprinkle in feta. Stir gently. Finish with chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

How to Serve and Store Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

This dish is best served warm, straight from the pan with a sprinkle of extra feta and a wedge of lemon on the side. Pair it with a crisp cucumber salad or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-style meal.

To store, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive the orzo’s creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rice instead of orzo?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Orzo cooks faster and absorbs broth differently than rice.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It can be frozen, though orzo may soften slightly upon reheating. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

What other vegetables can I add?

Zucchini, spinach, or artichoke hearts make great additions. Stir in greens at the end to keep them vibrant.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Simply omit the feta or use a dairy-free alternative. The lemon and olives will still give it punchy flavor.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans, and use vegetable broth. Still hearty and satisfying!

Want More Mediterranean Dinner Ideas?

If you love this chicken orzo, you’ll enjoy these other hearty meals packed with flavor:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s always at your fingertips.

And if you make it, let me know how it went! Did you try it with spinach or keep it classic? Did you add a spicy twist?

Tag your creations and questions in the comments—I love seeing how you bring these dishes to life.

Looking for more dinner inspiration? Head to my Pinterest @NinaDishes for daily kitchen creations.

Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a bright, one-pan dinner bursting with lemon, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and tender chicken. A simple dish with huge flavor that’s perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining.

Instructions

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and lemon zest.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through (5–6 minutes per side). Remove and let rest.

3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté onions until soft. Stir in garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo. Toast for 1–2 minutes.

4. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer. Cook on low for 8–10 minutes, stirring, until orzo is tender.

5. Slice rested chicken and return to skillet. Add olives and lemon juice. Sprinkle with feta, stir gently.

6. Finish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.