I still remember the exact moment I tasted Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo for the first time. I was sitting at this little seaside taverna in Greece, the sun was setting, and the air was buzzing with the scent of fresh herbs and sizzling garlic. One bite in, and wow—the juicy chicken, perfectly cooked orzo soaked in a bright, lemony broth with peppers, olives, and feta all mingling in a symphony of flavors. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a full-on flavor celebration that slapped my taste buds awake. This Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo isn’t shy—it’s bold, adventurous, loaded with sunshine and bite, just like my Cuba Queen flavor vibe.
Coming back home, I knew I had to bottle that vibe in my kitchen. This recipe represents everything I stand for: fearless flavors, simple ingredients, and dishes that make you want to dance at the dinner table. Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo became my go-to whenever I wanted to bring a little fiesta to family dinners or impress my flavor adventurer friends. I’m beyond excited to share this recipe with you because it’s one of those dishes that hits all the right notes—comfort, brightness, and downright meat-and-delicious satisfaction. Get ready; this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo will change the way you do weeknight dinners forever.
If you’ve dreams of healthy Mediterranean meals that don’t sacrifice taste, this Greek chicken orzo recipe is your new secret weapon. And if you’re a lover of one pot chicken and orzo dishes (I totally am), you’ll appreciate how this skillet recipe maximizes flavor with minimal effort. Trust me, once you make this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo, your dinner game will be on fire.
Ingredients You Need for This:

- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (juicy, flavorful, and forgiving for the best Mediterranean diet chicken experience)
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta (the magic grain that soaks up all the bold flavors)
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced (freshness that cuts through richness)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (garlic and Mediterranean chicken orzo skillet magic go hand in hand)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for sweet bursts of flavor)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (the signature salt pop of all Mediterranean chicken and orzo greatness)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced (sweet crunch that adds color and character)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (the base that lets the orzo become civilization-level delicious)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (game-changing smoky depth you didn’t know you needed)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (that classic Greek herb kick)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (splurge-worthy, creamy, tangy finish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (quality Mediterranean vibes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Here’s the Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo game-changer: I swap regular chicken breasts for thighs every time. The thighs keep things moist and tender, unlike breast meat that can dry out and steal flavor away. You’ll find the best ingredients for this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo at your local farmers market or specialty grocer. Look for fresh lemons and the ripest cherry tomatoes—they make a world of difference.
If you’re on a budget, canned diced tomatoes stand in fine for fresh, and frozen bell peppers work too. Just defrost and drain extra water. For olive oil, splurge on an extra-virgin version for that buttery richness that elevates everything in the skillet.
Pro Power Tip: Prep your garlic and zest those lemons before you start. It saves your kitchen flow and lets that Mediterranean chicken orzo skillet shine without hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano.
- Sear the chicken skin-side down until golden and crispy, about 5 minutes per side. Don’t stress—your Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo is going to be incredible once you have this flavor base.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, toss in garlic, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all those tasty browned bits. Sprinkle in the orzo and olives, stir to combine. This is where your Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo transforms into pure magic.
- Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin side up. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 12-15 minutes—your cue to grab a camera because this process is Instagram gold!
- Check orzo for doneness; it should be tender but not mushy. If the broth gets absorbed too fast, add a splash of water or broth. Pro tip for Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo perfection: stirring halfway keeps orzo cooking evenly.
- When cooked through, squeeze lemon juice and sprinkle lemon zest all over. Toss in crumbled feta just before serving for a tangy punch.
Your Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo should look vibrant—the reds, greens, olives, and golden chicken creating a feast for eyes and taste buds alike. And that smell? Pure Mediterranean magic.
If you want to make this a one-pot chicken and orzo wonder, check out Kalejunkie’s One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Orzo for a variation that’s perfect for busy nights.
Don’t let timing intimidate you. In my kitchen, this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo takes exactly 40 minutes from start to finish. This is where the flavor party kicks off.
Presentation:
Serving Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo is a vibe. When you plate it, go for wide shallow bowls that highlight the colorful orzo, chicken, and bright jewels of tomato and olive.
People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo at dinner parties. Dropping a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top amps the color and fresh flavor. A drizzle of good olive oil right before serving takes it over the top.
Pair this bold meal with a crunchy cucumber salad or grilled veggies to keep the healthy Mediterranean meals spirit alive. For side inspirations, you NEED to try my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers alongside—they’re a combo made in flavor heaven.
This Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo absolutely slays at midweek meals but shines just as bright for weekend crowd-pleasers. Leftovers? Cold Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo tossed with extra lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh greens turns into an epic lunch bowl with barely any work.
Seasonally, swap cherry tomatoes for roasted butternut squash in the fall or fresh peas in the spring. Each twist keeps the dish exciting and satisfying. For more flavorful Mediterranean chicken orzo recipe ideas, check out Sip and Feast’s Easy Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I make this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo spicier?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes to step 3 when you sauté garlic and veggies or toss in some diced jalapeños. A pinch of cayenne also amps that heat in a controlled way.Q2: What if I don’t have Kalamata olives?
Sub in green olives or even capers for briny hit. The real Mediterranean chicken orzo skillet flavor lives in that salty burst, so don’t skip it entirely.Q3: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
You can. Just watch cooking time carefully. Breasts dry out faster so reduce simmer time or slice them thinner.Q4: How do I know when my Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo is perfectly done?
Chicken should reach 165°F internally, and the orzo should be tender with a slight bite. Your kitchen will smell like a Mediterranean market—a big clue your journey was successful!Q5: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook and chill. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to keep orzo loose. Add feta fresh when serving.Q6: Is this recipe family-friendly?
Totally. To please picky eaters, leave out olives or feta, or serve those toppings on the side.Q7: Can I make this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo vegan or vegetarian?
Yes, swap chicken for hearty mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth. It changes the vibe but keeps the hearty soul intact.
Cooking bold doesn’t have to be intimidating. My community often shares how this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo is the recipe that boosted their confidence and belly happiness.
For more bold flavor adventures, check out my Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl recipe and Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese for equally satisfying meals!
Conclusion:

This Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo is everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold, fearless, and bursting with flavor that makes you feel alive. It shows how simple ingredients turn into a celebration-worthy meal that leaves people talking.
Here are my Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Power Tips:
- Use chicken thighs for juicy, tender bites every time
- Don’t skip the lemon zest and juice—they brighten everything
- Cook orzo just right—tender with a bite, not mushy or dry
I’ve enjoyed versions loaded with extra spinach or swapped olives for artichokes. My crowd’s all-time fave? The classic with feta and fresh lemon—no competition.
Make this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo your signature dish—it’s a sure-win for every meal occasion. I’m confident you’ll knock it out of the park because the flavors are bold, easy, and unforgettable.
Get cooking, flavor adventurer. Then share your culinary victories and twists! I’m here, fired up, ready for you to taste your best Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo yet. Let’s create memories and flavor explosions together.
Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo
A vibrant and wholesome Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo dish featuring tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and a medley of fresh vegetables, perfect for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in chicken broth, then add dried oregano, thyme, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and lemon juice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm.
Notes
For added depth, serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh Greek salad.

