Description
If you’re looking for a quick dinner idea that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying, this Quick Mediterranean Chicken Casserole is your answer. This easy recipe combines tender chicken thighs, creamy orzo pasta, bell peppers, red onions, and garlic—all brought together with Mediterranean herbs and a touch of cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights, healthy snacks, or even as a crowd-pleasing dinner option, this one-pan wonder makes cleanup easy and the results unforgettable. A fantastic addition to your collection of dinner ideas and food ideas!
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup orzo pasta
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium red onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella or ¾ cup crumbled feta
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add remaining olive oil and sauté bell peppers, red onion, and garlic for 5–6 minutes.
6. Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping any browned bits.
8. Nestle the seared chicken into the orzo mixture.
9. Top with mozzarella or feta and transfer skillet to the oven.
10. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is cooked and orzo is tender.
11. Let rest for 5 minutes after baking.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use hot broth to keep the temperature stable and reduce bake time.
Toasting the orzo before adding broth boosts flavor and keeps the texture perfect.
Let the casserole rest before serving to help the orzo set and flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked, One-Pan
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 580
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 31
- Cholesterol: 95