Name: Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.), halved; 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1 tablespoon capers, drained; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 2.5 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked shredded or rotisserie chicken; 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

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Introduction

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a vibrant, comforting one-pot meal bursting with fresh flavors like olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese. This easy dish combines tender shredded chicken with perfectly cooked orzo pasta for a satisfying dinner that’s ready in no time.

A close-up of a white bowl filled with a creamy orzo pasta dish that includes shredded white chicken pieces, bright red cherry tomato halves, dark purple kalamata olives, green spinach leaves, and small green capers. The orzo pasta is pale yellow and slightly coated in a creamy sauce, with some bits of white cheese scattered on top. A gold and white fork is partially stuck into the orzo on the left side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.), cut into halves
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and cut into halves
1 tablespoon capers, drained
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
1/2 cup dry white wine
2.5 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded or rotisserie chicken
2 cups packed fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil and butter in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the tomatoes, olives, capers, oregano, garlic, and orzo. Once the butter has melted, cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to combine the ingredients.
Step 2: Pour in the white wine and allow it to bubble for about 30 seconds. Stir in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium or medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pot. Make sure the liquid reduces slowly as the orzo cooks.
Step 4: Stir in the shredded chicken, baby spinach, and crumbled feta cheese.
Step 5: Remove the pot from heat, cover, and let rest for 3–5 minutes. This will allow the spinach to wilt, the cheese to melt slightly, and the broth to absorb further.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, substitute half the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking for a subtle spicy kick.
Use fresh oregano instead of dried if available, adding it towards the end of cooking to preserve flavor.
Swap the rotisserie chicken for cooked shrimp or chickpeas for a different protein option.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the dish if needed.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up view of a warm dish in a white pot, consisting of several mixed layers. The bottom layer is pale yellow orzo pasta that looks soft and cooked, soaking in a light brown broth. Scattered throughout are bright green wilted spinach leaves adding a fresh color and texture. There are also deep purple Kalamata olives and small capers providing contrast. Bright red halves of cherry tomatoes sit on top, some cooked and slightly wrinkled. White shredded chicken chunks are spread evenly over the dish, blending with the pasta and vegetables. A wooden spoon stirs the ingredients gently from the left side. The pot’s interior has light stains from cooking, and the whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or couscous can work well as substitutes. Keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra spinach or chickpeas to maintain protein content.