Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo and Olives

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Mediterranean chicken served with orzo and olives in a vibrant dish
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Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo and Olives

Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo and Olives is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of the Mediterranean in one easy meal. It combines tender chicken, golden orzo pasta, and briny olives all baked together in chicken broth. This dish not only tastes amazing but also fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma that makes everyone hungry.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner! It’s simple to prepare and uses everyday ingredients you might already have in your pantry. With just one baking dish, cleanup is a breeze. Plus, the blend of flavors from the chicken, olives, and herbs gives you a taste of the Mediterranean right at home. Whether you’re serving family or entertaining friends, this dish is bound to impress.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo and Olives

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 8 oz orzo pasta
  • 1 cup pitted olives
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the chicken with the mixture and place it in a baking dish.
  4. In a pot, cook the orzo according to package instructions.
  5. In a separate pan, sauté olives and cherry tomatoes until slightly softened.
  6. Add the cooked orzo to the pan with olives and tomatoes.
  7. Pour chicken broth over the chicken, then add the orzo mixture around it.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo and Olives

Serve your Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo and Olives hot from the oven! It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You can also drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for added flavor. Enjoy it with family and friends for a lovely dinner!

How to Store Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo and Olives

If you have leftovers (if there are any!), let them cool down and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven. Just add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.

Tips to Make Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo and Olives

  • Feel free to use any type of chicken you prefer, thighs or breasts both work well.
  • Add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  • If you want a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the chicken mixture.

Variations

You can easily switch up the olives or use different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also be great additions. Just be creative and make it your own!

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can use other meats like turkey or even fish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the orzo pasta contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

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Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo and Olives

  • Author: olivia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free optional
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Description

A delightful dish that combines tender chicken, golden orzo pasta, and briny olives baked in chicken broth for a taste of the Mediterranean.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8 oz orzo pasta
  • 1 cup pitted olives
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the chicken with the mixture and place it in a baking dish.
  4. In a pot, cook the orzo according to package instructions.
  5. In a separate pan, sauté olives and cherry tomatoes until slightly softened.
  6. Add the cooked orzo to the pan with olives and tomatoes.
  7. Pour chicken broth over the chicken, then add the orzo mixture around it.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve hot with a green salad or crusty bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken, orzo, Mediterranean, easy dinner, one dish meal

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