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Creamy Mediterranean Chicken Orzo: Your New Weeknight Favorite

This creamy Mediterranean chicken orzo combines flavor and comfort, making it your go-to weeknight meal.
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 diced chicken breast can use boneless thighs for extra flavor
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup orzo pasta substitute with gluten-free orzo for gluten-free option
For Sautéing
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil can replace with butter for richer taste
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped; red onion works for milder flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic minced; garlic powder can be used in a pinch
For Freshness
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes can substitute with any diced fresh tomato
  • 2 cups fresh spinach can use kale as an alternative
For Flavor
  • 3 cups chicken broth can substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian version
  • 1 cup heavy cream can replace with half-and-half or coconut cream
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano can substitute with Italian seasoning
  • to taste salt and pepper essential for good seasoning
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley can use basil for a different herbal note
  • optional grated Parmesan cheese use nutritional yeast for dairy-free alternative

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step 1
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in 1 pound of diced chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate while keeping the residual oil and juices.
Step 2
  1. In the same skillet, add a finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, introduce 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3
  1. Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, mixing well to combine. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow the orzo to cook according to package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes.
Step 4
  1. Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, and 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring regularly, until the spinach has wilted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5
  1. Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the creamy orzo blend. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6
  1. Once heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your creamy orzo directly from the skillet, garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This dish is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to have a delightful dinner ready on busy nights.

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