I still remember the first time I discovered how delicious Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo could be while keeping things nourishing and simple. I was experimenting in my cozy kitchen one breezy spring afternoon. I wanted a recipe that fit into my life—quick, wholesome, and satisfying for my family without feeling like I needed a degree in cooking to pull it off. That’s when Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo showed up like a little kitchen miracle.
This dish perfectly balances juicy, lemon herb chicken with tender orzo pasta, fresh veggies, and a light, bright sauce. It became a staple because it felt real—no stress, no fuss, just wholesome ingredients coming together for a meal we could enjoy any day of the week. You know that feeling when you want something nutritious but crave comfort too? That’s exactly the sweet spot Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo hits for me.
What I love most is how this recipe embraces balance in everyday cooking. It’s flexible, making space for your favorite veggies or whatever you have in the pantry. It doesn’t ask for perfect ingredients or complicated steps. Instead, it welcomes simple swaps and encourages you to make this healthy Mediterranean chicken and pasta your own. For example, if you prefer gluten-free options, my gluten-free chicken tenders work beautifully here.
For fellow home cooks looking for nourishing meals that feel like a hug at the end of a busy day, this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo is a friend you’ll want in your recipe rotation. It’s the kind of meal that keeps you fueled without the stress or the rushed dinner scramble.
Plus, it pairs beautifully with easy sides and lends itself to leftovers that reheat like a charm. If you enjoy this dish, you might love checking out my take on the slow cooker Greek chicken recipe or the hearty cozy vibes of chicken and dumplings for when you want something a little different. Also, for inspiration on Mediterranean pasta salads with a delightful twist, consider this mom-friendly Mediterranean pasta salad recipe. Or try a quick, all-in-one approach with the One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Orzo for an easier version.
I’m so excited to share this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo recipe with you—it’s all about cooking that works for real life and tastes like you put in a little extra love, without any pressure. You’ve got this!
Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo
This Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo dish combines tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta for a vibrant and satisfying meal inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
- Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return to the skillet with orzo.
- Add cherry tomatoes, olives, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle some extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper before serving.