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Easy Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Easy Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet in 30 Minutes

A vibrant, one-pan meal featuring succulent chicken, olives, and sundried tomatoes, ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts Slice into ¼-inch thick pieces.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Granulated Garlic Fresh garlic can be substituted.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
For the Cooking Base
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil For sautéing.
  • 1 medium Onion (diced) Use white or yellow onion.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Add more if desired.
For the Orzo and Flavor
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Substitute with short-grain rice for gluten-free.
  • 2 cups Water Adjust depending on pasta type.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
  • ½ cup Sundried Tomatoes Can be swapped with fresh tomatoes.
  • ½ cup Kalamata Olives Any high-quality olives will enhance the dish.
  • ½ cup Feta Cheese Crumbled goat cheese can be used as a substitute.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons Dill (optional)

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic, and oregano. Marinate briefly.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add seasoned chicken and brown for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add diced onion to the same skillet; sauté until translucent for about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add Garlic and Orzo: Stir in minced garlic, then add uncooked orzo, stirring for about 2 minutes.
  5. Simmer with Liquid: Pour in water, lemon juice, and salt. Bring to simmer and cook uncovered for 3-4 minutes.
  6. Combine and Cook Together: Return chicken, add sundried tomatoes and olives. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
  7. Final Touches: Remove from heat, sprinkle with pepper, feta, and optional herbs. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This dish can be made ahead. Follow the tips for meal prep to enhance flavor and ease of preparation.

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