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Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo

Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

This Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo is a quick, one-pot dish that combines flavorful ingredients in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Base
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Boneless and skinless
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can substitute with similar-sized pasta
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use butter for richer flavor
  • 1 medium Onion (Diced) Yellow or white for sweetness
  • 3 cloves Garlic (Minced) Fresh is preferred
For the Fresh Ingredients
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Halved) Canned tomatoes can be used
  • 2 cups Spinach (Packed) Can substitute with kale
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Can use vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Can use half-and-half or plant-based cream
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be used in smaller amounts
Seasoning and Finishing Touches
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • for garnish tablespoon Fresh Parsley (Chopped) Can use basil instead
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional) Nutritional yeast works as a vegan substitute

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the seasoned chicken breast pieces, cooking for 5–7 minutes or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
    Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo
  2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
    Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo
  3. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, then pour in 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 9–11 minutes until the orzo is al dente.
    Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo
  4. Reduce the heat to low, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 2 cups of packed spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes until spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy.
    Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo
  5. Toss the cooked chicken back into the skillet, mix thoroughly, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan before serving.
    Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For extra moisture, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Keep an eye on the orzo to avoid overcooking; it should be al dente. Adjust seasonings as needed. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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