Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delicious and wholesome Chicken and Orzo Skillet paired with a refreshing Cucumber Salad. This recipe combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, orzo pasta, and a zesty cucumber salad for a delightful and balanced meal. Here’s how to bring this Mediterranean-inspired dish to your table:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds of chicken tenders or chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon of ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 5 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
- 12 ounces of orzo (about 2 cups)
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh dill, plus more for serving
- 1/2 English cucumber, halved and thinly sliced
- 2 cups of cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of crumbled feta (about 2 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
Directions:
Step 1: In a large bowl, toss the chicken strips with ground coriander, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, ground cinnamon, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add half of the seasoned chicken mixture and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the chicken turns golden and is just cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate. Repeat this process with 1 more tablespoon of oil and the remaining chicken mixture.
Step 3: If necessary, wipe any dark bits from the pan with a clean paper towel and return it to medium heat. Add minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of olive oil, stirring until the garlic becomes fragrant (approximately 30 seconds). Stir in the chicken broth, orzo, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and gently simmer, stirring frequently, until most of the liquid is absorbed, and the orzo becomes tender. This should take about 12 to 14 minutes.
Step 4: Remove the skillet from the heat, stir in the chopped dill, and top it with the cooked chicken mixture.
Step 5: In a medium bowl, combine the cucumber slices, halved tomatoes, crumbled feta, fresh lemon juice, the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
Step 6: To serve, spoon the refreshing cucumber salad over the chicken and orzo mixture. Garnish your dish with additional fresh dill for a burst of flavor and visual appeal.
This Mediterranean-inspired Chicken and Orzo Skillet with Cucumber Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that is sure to please your palate. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean in every bite!