Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet – A One-Pan Flavorful Dinner

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet is the kind of meal that makes weeknight cooking both simple and exciting. It’s hearty, colorful, and full of flavor, yet it only takes one pan to prepare—making cleanup effortless. Tender chicken, nutty orzo, and fresh vegetables come together with Mediterranean-inspired seasonings for a balanced dish that feels wholesome and satisfying. I once swapped the chicken for shrimp, and it was just as delicious, adding a coastal flair to the meal. What I love most is how versatile this dish can be—you can adapt it with seasonal produce or different proteins, and it always works. The orzo absorbs the savory juices from the chicken and aromatics, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this skillet dish is both comforting and impressive.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs stay juicier and more tender, while breasts are leaner. Either works beautifully depending on preference.

Orzo pasta – This small, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for soaking up flavors from the broth and seasonings.

Olive oil – A Mediterranean staple that enhances the chicken and vegetables with richness.

Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic adds a fragrant depth that ties the whole dish together.

Onion – Provides a sweet and savory base flavor that balances the other ingredients.

Cherry tomatoes – Bursting with natural sweetness, they add freshness and a pop of color.

Kalamata olives – Salty and briny, olives bring a classic Mediterranean touch to the skillet.

Chicken broth – Used to cook the orzo, infusing it with savory richness.

Feta cheese – Creamy and tangy, feta crumbles on top make the dish irresistible.

Lemon juice – Adds brightness and a zesty finish, keeping the flavors fresh.

Fresh parsley – A garnish that enhances freshness and color, tying all the Mediterranean flavors together.

Salt and black pepper – Seasoning essentials to balance and enhance every ingredient.

Dried oregano – A key Mediterranean herb that adds an earthy and aromatic note.

Directions

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, then remove it from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté onion and garlic until softened and fragrant. Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to blister.

Add the orzo and toast it lightly in the skillet for extra flavor. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the orzo simmer until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once the orzo is nearly cooked, return the chicken to the skillet and nestle it into the pasta. Add Kalamata olives, and let everything cook together for a few minutes so the flavors meld.

Before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the skillet, sprinkle with crumbled feta, and garnish with parsley. Serve warm straight from the pan.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
• large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
• Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
• Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
• Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
• knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
• Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation and cooking together take about 40 minutes, making it a quick but satisfying one-pan dinner.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the orzo. The dish does not freeze well, as orzo tends to lose its texture after thawing.

Variations and Customizations

Seafood Twist – Substitute shrimp or fish for chicken for a lighter, coastal variation.

Vegetarian Version – Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.

Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a touch of harissa for a bold flavor.

Cheese Swap – Use goat cheese or ricotta salata instead of feta for a different tangy note.

Herb Infusion – Add fresh basil or dill to enhance the Mediterranean freshness.

FAQs

Can I use rice instead of orzo?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid since rice takes longer to cook.

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless thighs stay juicier, but breasts work well for a leaner option.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

Do I need to pre-cook the orzo?

No, the orzo cooks directly in the broth, which enhances its flavor.

Can I add spinach or kale?

Absolutely—stir in greens near the end of cooking for extra nutrients and freshness.

How do I know when the orzo is done?

It should be tender but still slightly firm, similar to al dente pasta.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients and cook quickly when ready.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works well, especially for a vegetarian version.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Do not overcook it—sear until golden, then let it finish cooking gently in the skillet.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a deliciously balanced one-pan meal that brings fresh, vibrant flavors to your dinner table. It’s filling, wholesome, and full of Mediterranean staples that are both healthy and satisfying. The combination of juicy chicken, briny olives, creamy feta, and bright lemon creates a dish that feels both comforting and refreshing. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

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