Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that won’t leave you drowning in dishes? Look no further than this one-pot Mediterranean baked orzo with chicken! This dish is a true culinary gem, combining the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of a single-pot meal. Imagine tender orzo pasta tossed with juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of aromatic spices – all baked to perfection in one cozy pot.
This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to indulge in a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The magic lies in the simplicity of the preparation and the depth of flavor achieved with minimal effort. With just a few simple ingredients and a dash of Mediterranean flair, you’ll transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, savoring every bite of this irresistible one-pot wonder.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken, orzo, onion, garlic, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, chicken broth, water, oregano, basil, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
- Remove the pot from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes, covered. This will allow the orzo to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Fluff the orzo mixture with a fork and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
This one-pot Mediterranean baked orzo with chicken is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave a satisfying and flavorful meal without the fuss. The combination of tender orzo, juicy chicken, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean with every bite. Enjoy this delicious and comforting dish with your loved ones, and savor the simplicity and convenience of a one-pot meal that delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
