Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipe

marinate and cook chicken

Thinly slice the chicken breasts into 3/4-inch strips or small cutlets for even cooking. In a bowl, combine 1 tbs olive oil, 1 tbs lemon juice, minced garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp pepper. Add chicken, toss to coat, and let marinate at room temperature for 10–15 minutes (or refrigerate up to 2 hours).

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a light spray or 1 tsp olive oil if needed. Add marinated chicken in a single layer and cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate, tent with foil and let rest 5 minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces if not already sliced.

cook orzo

While chicken is resting, warm 1 tsp olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add dry orzo and toast, stirring, for 1 minute. Add 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, 1/2 cup water and 1/4 tsp salt. Bring to a simmer, cover, reduce heat to low and cook until liquid is absorbed and orzo is tender, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

prepare vegetables

While orzo cooks, halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber and red pepper, finely chop red onion and roughly chop spinach. Place cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, halved kalamata olives and chopped spinach in a large mixing bowl.

When orzo is warm but not piping hot, add it to the bowl with vegetables so it gently warms the spinach without wilting completely.

make dressing

In a small jar or bowl whisk together 1 tbs olive oil (dressing), 1 tbs lemon juice, 1/2 tsp red wine vinegar, 1/4 tsp dijon mustard and 1/4 tsp dried oregano until emulsified. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Pour dressing over the orzo and vegetables. Add chopped parsley and toss to combine. Fold in sliced cooked chicken and 2 tbs crumbled feta cheese if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or enjoy cold.