Mediterranean Lemon-Herb Chicken with Creamy Orzo & Roasted Vegetables
- Classic Mediterranean flavors
- High protein, balanced & comforting
- Not spicy (as per your preference)
- Feels restaurant-quality but easy at home
🕒 Time Required
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Total: ~50 minute
📝 Ingredients
For Lemon-Herb Chicken
2 chicken breasts (or thighs)
3 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 large lemon
Zest of ½ lemon
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp thyme
Salt & black pepper to taste
For Creamy Mediterranean Orzo
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
¼ cup grated parmesan
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp cream or Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
Roasted Vegetables
1 zucchini (sliced)
1 red bell pepper (sliced)
1 red onion (wedges)
1 cup cherry tomatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper
Garnish (Optional but Recommended)
Fresh parsley or basil
Crumbled feta cheese
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt & pepper.
Coat chicken well and rest 15–30 minutes.
2️⃣ Roast the Vegetables
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt & pepper.
Roast for 20–25 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.
3️⃣ Cook the Chicken
Heat a pan over medium heat.
Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
4️⃣ Make Creamy Orzo
In a pan, add orzo and broth.
Simmer until orzo is tender and liquid absorbed.
Stir in olive oil, parmesan, cream/yogurt & lemon juice.
5️⃣ Assemble
Spread creamy orzo on plate
Top with sliced chicken
Add roasted vegetables
Finish with feta & fresh herbs
💡 Tips
Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness
Add olives for a more authentic Mediterranean touch
Orzo can be replaced with brown rice or couscous
❓ frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Replace chicken with grilled halloumi or chickpeas.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
Yes, keeps well for 2–3 days in the fridge.
Q: Is it healthy?
Very! Balanced carbs, protein, healthy fats & fiber.
🥗 Nutritional Information
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Carbs: 45 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 6 g