Craving a dinner idea that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors and easy to make? This Mediterranean chicken recipe is perfect for a quick and wholesome dinner.
Packed with juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and bold seasonings, it delivers a restaurant-quality taste. Whether you’re meal-prepping or looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite!
What Makes This Mediterranean Chicken So Special?
This recipe stands out because it’s:
- One-Pan Convenience: Less mess, fewer dishes, and maximum flavor.
- Nutrient-Rich: A perfect balance of lean protein, whole grains, and fresh vegetables.
- Customizable for All Diets: Easily adaptable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian preferences.
The Perfect Pairings for This Dish
Want to turn this meal into a full Mediterranean-inspired feast? Here are some great side options:
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- Fresh Salads: A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta pairs beautifully.
- Grain Alternatives: Swap orzo for quinoa or couscous for a different texture.
- Warm Breads: Serve with pita bread or garlic-infused flatbread to soak up all the flavors.
- Refreshing Drinks: A crisp white wine or lemon-infused sparkling water is the perfect finishing touch.
Customizing This Mediterranean Chicken Recipe
One of the best things about this dinner idea is how versatile it is. Here are some easy ways to tweak it based on your preferences:
- For a Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas, tofu, or grilled halloumi.
- For a Gluten-Free Version: Use quinoa or gluten-free pasta instead of orzo.
- For a Dairy-Free Alternative: Omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based substitute.
- To Add More Veggies: Incorporate zucchini, artichokes, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- For a Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of harissa.
How to Store and Reheat for Meal Prep
This Mediterranean chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep and easy to store:
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Properly: Add a splash of broth or water before reheating to maintain moisture.
- Freeze for Later: Store the orzo and chicken separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Chicken
To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Sear the Chicken Well: A golden crust locks in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley elevate the dish more than dried herbs.
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keeping it al dente prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Balance the Flavors: A mix of tangy, salty, and fresh ingredients creates a well-rounded taste.
With the right technique and high-quality ingredients, this Mediterranean chicken recipe will taste like a dish straight from a seaside café. Try this dinner idea tonight and bring the bold flavors of the Mediterranean to your table!
Homemade Mediterranean Chicken Recipe & Orzo
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Small saucepan
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breasts sliced thin and pounded
- 1½ cups whole wheat orzo dry
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- 1½ cups grape tomatoes halved
- ½ cup kalamata olives pitted and sliced
- ¼ cup white wine optional
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- ¼ cup pine nuts optional for nut-free option
For the Seasonings & Garnishes:
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ½ cup feta cheese optional
Instructions
- Bring a small saucepan of water to a boil, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through, before removing from the skillet and setting aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add the halved grape tomatoes and white wine (if using), allowing them to cook for 5-10 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the cooked orzo, kalamata olives, chopped spinach, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes, tossing everything together until well combined.
- Place the cooked chicken on top of the orzo mixture, garnish with fresh basil, parsley, and feta cheese (if using), then sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top if desired, and serve hot.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.