Mediterranean Chicken Orzo: Creamy & Delightful

Transport yourself to Mediterranean bliss with this delightful Chicken Orzo recipe. It’s a quick and easy dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables—all tossed in a deliciously creamy sauce.

>>>Get the Recipe Details: Chicken Orzo Recipe

Chicken Orzo RecipePhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Orzo: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted. Add the cooked orzo and chicken back into the skillet.
5. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Add Cheese and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta varieties like couscous, quinoa, or even rice.

2. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe? Absolutely! Use coconut cream or almond milk in place of the heavy cream and skip the feta cheese. You can add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

4. Can I add other vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas to the dish.

5. What can I serve with Chicken Orzo? This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Enjoy your Chicken Orzo, and let its rich, Mediterranean flavors bring a burst of sunshine to your meal. 🍗🍲🍅