Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Bowl
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes
🍽 Servings
3–4 servings
🛒 Ingredients
Chicken
2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp oregano
½ tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste
1 tbsp lemon juice
Orzo & Vegetables
1½ cups orzo pasta
1 small zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Flavor Boost
½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
½ tsp dried basil or thyme
¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Toppings
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Fresh mint or basil leaves (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, salt, lemon juice.
Add chicken and marinate 10–15 minutes.
2️⃣ Cook the Orzo
Boil orzo in salted water according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.
3️⃣ Grill or Pan-Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Set aside and slice.
4️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add olive oil and garlic.
Sauté zucchini and bell pepper 3–4 minutes until tender.
Add cherry tomatoes and cook 1 minute.
5️⃣ Combine Everything
Add cooked orzo to the pan.
Sprinkle chili flakes, dried herbs, and fresh parsley.
Toss gently to combine.
6️⃣ Assemble the Bowl
Top orzo with grilled chicken.
Sprinkle feta cheese and garnish with mint or basil.
Serve warm.
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this meal prep–friendly?
A: Yes! Store in airtight containers up to 3 days in the fridge.
Q: Can I replace orzo?
A: Yes—use rice, quinoa, or couscous.
Q: Is this recipe healthy?
A: Very! Balanced protein, fiber-rich veggies, and healthy fats.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Skip chicken and add chickpeas or grilled halloumi.
🍽 Serving Ideas
With cucumber yogurt sauce (tzatziki)
Drizzled with extra lemon olive oil
Served cold as a pasta salad
