Marissa's MediterraneanA vibrant, one-pan wonder where tender chicken thighs, juicy cherry tomatoes, and briny kalamata olives meld together with toasted orzo. It's high-fiber, heart-healthy, and cuts down on the dishes!
In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half the lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it sit while you prep the rest.
Even 10 minutes of marinating makes a huge difference in flavor!
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden (it doesn't need to be cooked through yet). Remove chicken and set aside.
Don't crowd the pan; work in batches if needed to get a good sear.
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and orzo. Toast the orzo for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it smells nutty and looks slightly golden.
Toasting the pasta prevents it from getting mushy and adds a deep, rich flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, and the remaining lemon juice. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release all those tasty browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer.
The liquid should just barely cover the orzo.
Nestle the browned chicken back into the pan. Scatter the cherry tomatoes and olives around the chicken. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to low. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.
If the orzo looks dry before it's finished, add another splash of broth.
Remove from heat. Sprinkle with crumbled feta and fresh parsley. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving directly from the pan.
Resting allows the sauce to thicken slightly for the perfect consistency.
This is the ultimate 'set it and forget it' Mediterranean dinner. The starch from the orzo creates a natural sauce with the chicken juices and chicken broth. If you want an extra pop of color, stir in a handful of fresh baby spinach right before serving until it wilts. Always use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for that authentic finish!
Nutrition data is estimated and may not be fully accurate. This is not medical advice — consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Prices shown reflect the estimated cost of the portion used in this recipe, not the full item price. Actual costs may vary by store and location.
Marissa's Mediterranean
@simplymediterranean
For moms that like Mediterranean. Simple and healthy
More from this chefMarissa's Mediterranean
@simplymediterranean
For moms that like Mediterranean. Simple and healthy
More from this chef