Mediterranean Chicken with Cucumber Tomato Pasta

Seaside Mediterranean Chicken with Fresh Cucumber Tomato Orzo
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Directions:
- In a small bowl, combine oregano, basil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Season chicken breasts generously with the spice mixture on both sides.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Meanwhile, cook orzo according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water, then transfer to a large bowl.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the orzo and toss to coat.
- Add cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley to the orzo. Toss gently to combine.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and honey to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss until well combined.
- Slice the chicken breasts and arrange on top of the orzo mixture.
- Sprinkle with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 485 kcal | Servings: 4 servings