Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo

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Imagine a dish where tender grilled chicken meets a bed of creamy, herb-infused orzo that melts in your mouth. This Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo brings together fresh flavors like lemon, garlic, and parsley to create a comforting yet vibrant meal. It’s the kind of dinner that feels indulgent but is secretly easy to pull off on a busy weeknight.

The juicy chicken breast is perfectly seasoned and grilled for a smoky touch, while the orzo is cooked to creamy perfection with Parmesan, broth, and a splash of cream. Fresh parsley brightens the whole dish, making each bite light yet satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself, this one-pan wonder will quickly become a staple.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the best result, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken breasts give you that lean, tender texture, while thighs bring a slightly richer flavor. Make sure to season them well and get a nice sear or grill mark to add depth to the final dish.

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Ingredients for the Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo

• Chicken breasts or thighs: These are the protein stars, providing juicy, tender bites.
• Orzo pasta: Acts like rice but cooks faster and soaks up all the creamy sauce.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the orzo with savory depth.
• Heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess to balance the herbs.
• Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty finish.
• Garlic: Brings warmth and a Mediterranean backbone to the flavors.
• Lemon zest and juice: Brightens the dish with acidity.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken and infusing the orzo with Mediterranean richness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning at every stage.

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How To Make the Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts or thighs dry and season them generously with salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder. This ensures they’re flavorful and juicy when cooked.

Step 2: Sear or Grill the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the orzo and toast it lightly. This gives the pasta a nutty base flavor.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let the orzo cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed—about 8–10 minutes.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency. Add a splash of lemon juice and zest for brightness.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Slice the cooked chicken and lay it over the creamy orzo. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and an extra hit of Parmesan if you like. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Serving and Storing Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo

Serve this dish hot right from the skillet, with an extra squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the silky texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish lighter?

Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.

Can I use another pasta besides orzo?

Yes! Small pastas like ditalini or even couscous can work, though cooking times will vary.

What herbs can I substitute for parsley?

Basil, dill, or oregano can bring their own Mediterranean flair if you’re out of parsley.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty twist.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While you can freeze it, the creamy sauce may separate when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Mediterranean Twist?

If you love this Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce for a light, flavorful seafood option.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for a hands-off dinner with big flavor.
• Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff for a creamy, comforting one-pot meal.
• One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for an indulgent cheesy twist.
• Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe if you crave a sweet-savory mix.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for thighs or breasts? Did you try adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better!

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