Finding a dish that’s quick, flavorful, and family-approved can sometimes feel like an impossible task. But this white wine-braised chicken with artichokes and orzo is here to prove otherwise.
It’s an easy recipe that delivers big on flavor while bringing Mediterranean inspiration to your table.
A Mediterranean Twist on Classic Comfort Food
This recipe takes the classic combination of chicken and rice and elevates it with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, creates a hearty base for the dish, absorbing the rich flavors of white wine, lemon, and chicken broth.
Marinated artichokes and salty green olives add tangy depth, while feta cheese and fresh dill bring a bright and creamy finish. This flavor-packed combination transforms simple ingredients into something unforgettable.
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Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Cooks
Whether you’re juggling work, family, or just a busy weeknight, this dish is as easy as it is satisfying. Here’s why:
- Quick Prep: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish in the oven without breaking a sweat.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
- Versatile Ingredients: Many of the ingredients, like chicken, orzo, and olive oil, are pantry staples, while others, like artichokes and olives, can be easily found at your local grocery store.
This recipe is proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a meal that feels special.
Tips for Customizing This Easy Recipe
Want to make this dish your own? Here are some simple ideas to tailor it to your needs:
- Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Go Dairy-Free: Skip the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Add Vegetables: Boost the nutrition by adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the skillet before baking.
- Use What You Have: Don’t have white wine? Substitute it with extra chicken broth and a splash of white wine vinegar for acidity.
These adjustments make it even easier to adapt this recipe to your preferences or dietary needs.
Perfect for Family Meals or Entertaining
This recipe isn’t just easy—it’s also a showstopper. The vibrant colors and Mediterranean flavors make it a great choice for entertaining.
Pair it with a crisp green salad and a loaf of crusty bread for a complete meal that will wow your guests. And since it serves six, it’s ideal for a family dinner with plenty of leftovers for meal prep.
The Secret to Bold Mediterranean Flavor
The key to this recipe’s bold flavor lies in its balance of ingredients. The white wine and lemon juice create a bright, tangy sauce, while the butter and olive oil add richness.
The marinated artichokes and green olives bring salty, briny notes, complementing the tender chicken. By finishing the dish with fresh dill and creamy feta, you add a final layer of Mediterranean flair that ties everything together beautifully.
This white wine-braised chicken with artichokes and orzo is more than just an easy food recipe. It’s a gateway to the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, all packed into a single skillet.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Try it tonight and see how effortless—and delicious—dinner can be!
Easy White Wine–Braised Chicken Recipe with Artichokes & Orzo
Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 garlic cloves minced or grated
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 8-ounce jar marinated artichoke hearts drained and roughly chopped
- ½ cup pitted green olives
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup cubed or crumbled feta cheese for serving
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and skillet: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. While the skillet heats up, season the chicken with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Sear the chicken: Once the oil is hot and shimmering, place the chicken in the skillet. Sear each piece until it develops a golden crust, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
- Toast the orzo and combine flavors: Add the butter to the same skillet. Stir in the garlic and orzo, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the orzo turns lightly golden. Deglaze the pan with the white wine, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom for extra flavor. Stir in the chicken broth, artichoke hearts, green olives, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Combine chicken and roast: Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, along with any juices that have collected on the plate. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the orzo is tender.
- Serve with garnishes: Divide the chicken and orzo among six plates. Top each serving with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Serve immediately for a warm, flavorful meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free variation, swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta or rice.
- You can adjust the level of saltiness by reducing the amount of olives or feta cheese.
- Pair this dish with a fresh side salad or warm bread to round out the meal.
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.