One Pot Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Thighs: Skinless, boneless thighs keep this dish juicy and flavorful. If you prefer chicken breasts for a leaner option, just reduce the cooking time slightly, as they cook faster.

Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is essential for the dish. In a pinch, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous. However, cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on it!

Cherry Tomatoes: They add a sweet burst of flavor. If cherry tomatoes aren’t in season, you can use canned diced tomatoes or any other fresh tomatoes, chopped. Just remember to adjust the cooking time a bit.

Mushrooms: I love using button mushrooms, but feel free to switch it up with cremini or even shiitake for a different taste. If you’re not a fan, sautéed spinach or zucchini can also work well.

Fresh Parsley: This is for garnish, but don’t skip it! Fresh herbs really brighten the dish. If you don’t have parsley, basil or cilantro are tasty alternatives.

How Do You Achieve Great Flavor When Sautéing Onions and Garlic?

Getting those onions and garlic just right is key to a flavorful base. Start with medium heat to avoid burning. Here’s how to do it:

• Heat olive oil in your pot before adding onions. This helps them soften gradually.
• Cook the onions for about 5-7 minutes until they’re translucent, then add minced garlic. Garlic cooks faster, so just stir it for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

This technique layers flavors beautifully and sets the stage for the rest of your dish. Just be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter!

How to Make One Pot Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 6 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. So, you’ll have a total of about 45-50 minutes from start to finish. Great for a hearty meal without all the cleanup!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Sauté:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large oven-safe pot or casserole dish. Heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3 minutes.

2. Brown the Chicken:

Now, it’s time to season the chicken thighs! Sprinkle on the salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Place the seasoned chicken into the pot, browning them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Once browned, take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate.

3. Cook the Veggies:

In the same pot, add the sliced mushrooms and let them cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften. This will add a nice flavor to the dish!

4. Toast the Orzo:

Next, stir in the orzo pasta and toast it in the pot with the mushrooms for 1-2 minutes. This brief toasting will enrich the flavor of the orzo.

5. Simmer It Up:

Time to add the chicken broth and cherry tomatoes! Pour them into the pot, and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Make sure to give it a good stir so everything is mixed well.

6. Bake the Dish:

Now, return the chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, and the orzo is tender.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Once done, remove the pot from the oven, and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Before serving, garnish your dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your wonderful One Pot Mediterranean Chicken Orzo!

Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs; just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as breasts may cook more quickly. If using bone-in chicken, you may need to extend the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked through.

What Can I Substitute for Orzo Pasta?

If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous, quinoa, or even ditalini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times and the amount of broth, as different grains may absorb liquid differently.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I Add Vegetables to Make It Healthier?

Definitely! Feel free to add any chopped veggies you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just sauté them briefly with the onions and garlic to ensure they’re tender before adding the mushrooms and orzo.