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Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo

Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo

Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo is a one-pot meal filled with tender chicken and creamy orzo, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Main Dish
  • 1 pound chicken breast can be substituted with turkey or a plant-based option
  • 1 cup orzo pasta can swap with any small pasta shape
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil vegetable oil is a good substitute
  • 1 medium onion red or yellow onions can be used interchangeably
  • 2 cloves garlic garlic powder can be used as a substitute
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes substitute with diced regular tomatoes if preferred
  • 2 cups spinach can be replaced with kale or any leafy green
  • 3 cups chicken broth vegetable broth is a great alternative
  • 1 cup heavy cream consider half-and-half or coconut milk for lighter options
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano using fresh oregano can enhance freshness
  • to taste salt season to taste
  • to taste pepper season to taste
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley other herbs like basil can also add a lovely touch
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until it glistens.
  2. Add bite-sized pieces of seasoned chicken breast to the skillet, cooking until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. In the same skillet, add a diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
  4. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and 3 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 9-11 minutes.
  6. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a few handfuls of fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
  7. Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet and stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Dish out while hot, garnishing with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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