This One Pot Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a cozy dish full of flavor! With tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and delicious orzo pasta, it’s like a hug in a bowl.
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights! Just toss everything in one pot, and you’ll have a tasty meal with minimal cleanup. Who doesn’t love that? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs give rich flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, use boneless chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them.
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is perfect for absorbing flavors. If you need a gluten-free substitute, use quinoa or rice, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth packs a punch with flavor. If you’re short on time, low-sodium store-bought works well too. Vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness. Any seasonal tomato works, but feel free to use canned ones in a pinch. Just adjust cooking time slightly.
Mushrooms: Button and cremini add earthiness, but you can skip them or use any mushrooms you like. Zucchini would also be a good alternative.
How Do I Get Perfectly Sear My Chicken Thighs?
Searing chicken creates a lovely golden crust while locking in juices. Start with a hot pot and don’t rush. Here’s how:
- Heat the pot on medium-high until hot. Add olive oil and let it heat up.
- Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano.
- Place chicken skin-side down in the pot. Cook without moving for about 5 minutes until golden.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes. This helps to crisp up the skin.
Remember, letting it sit undisturbed is key for that perfect sear!
One Pot Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Orzo:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Mediterranean Chicken Orzo takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes to cook in the oven. Total time is approximately 45 minutes to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal cleanup. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This will ensure your dish cooks perfectly when it’s time to pop it in the oven.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Add the chicken thighs to the pot, skin-side down, and sear them for about 5 minutes until they are golden brown. Flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Then, remove the chicken and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion is translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This step adds wonderful flavor to your dish!
4. Toast the Orzo:
Next, stir in the orzo pasta and mix it with the onion and garlic for about a minute. This will give the orzo a nice toasted flavor.
5. Add the Liquid and Remaining Ingredients:
Now, pour in the chicken broth, and lemon juice, and add the lemon zest, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, and olives. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Return the Chicken to the Pot:
Place the seared chicken thighs back on top of the orzo mixture. This way, they will finish cooking and infuse more flavor while baking.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and bake it in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Then, garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Mediterranean feast!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, you can use those instead. Just reduce the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) for doneness. Boneless thighs will also absorb flavors nicely!
What Can I Substitute for Orzo Pasta?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with any small pasta, such as ditalini, stelline, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions to avoid overcooking!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry. This dish also freezes well—just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or swap in other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just ensure they are chopped into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. This dish is quite versatile and can accommodate your favorite Mediterranean veggies!
