Best 2 Pressure Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipes

Embark on a culinary journey to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with our pressure cooker Mediterranean chicken orzo! This vibrant dish captures the essence of the region's flavors, combining succulent chicken, tender orzo pasta, a medley of aromatic vegetables, and a delightful blend of herbs and spices. Prepared in a trusty pressure cooker, this one-pot meal is a symphony of convenience and taste. Discover the intricacies of this delectable dish, a harmonious blend of tangy lemon, savory garlic, and earthy oregano, all enveloped in a rich tomato broth. Accompanying this main course are two tantalizing recipes: a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad, a crisp and colorful complement to the hearty chicken orzo, and a creamy tzatziki sauce, adding a cooling touch with its yogurt base, tangy cucumber, and aromatic herbs. Prepare to be transported to the heart of the Mediterranean with this flavorful and satisfying culinary experience.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN ORZO

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo image

Orzo pasta with chicken, olives and herbes de Provence has the bright flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Here's a bonus: Leftovers reheat really well! -Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 4h15m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
1 cup sliced pitted green olives
1 cup sliced pitted ripe olives
1 large carrot, finely chopped
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon herbes de Provence
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

Steps:

In a 3- or 4-qt. slow cooker, combine the first 11 ingredients. Cook, covered, on low 4-5 hours or until chicken, pasta and vegetables are tender, adding orzo during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 415 calories, Fat 19g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 86mg cholesterol, Sodium 941mg sodium, Carbohydrate 33g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 27g protein.

PRESSURE-COOKER MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN ORZO

Pressure-Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Orzo image

Orzo pasta with chicken, olives and herbes de Provence has the bright flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Here's a bonus: Leftovers reheat well. -Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 20m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1-1/2 pounds), cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 cup sliced pitted green olives, drained
1 cup sliced pitted ripe olives, drained
1 large carrot, halved lengthwise and chopped
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon herbes de Provence
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

Steps:

In a 6-qt. electric pressure cooker, combine the first 11 ingredients; stir to combine. Lock lid; close pressure-release valve. Adjust to pressure-cook on high for 8 minutes. Quick-release pressure., Add orzo. Lock lid; close pressure-release valve. Adjust to pressure-cook on low for 3 minutes. Allow pressure to naturally release for 4 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. Let stand 8-10 minutes before serving.

Tips:

Select the right chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a lean and tender result. You can also use a whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces.
Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs infuses it with flavor and makes it more tender.
Use a variety of vegetables: This recipe calls for a mix of vegetables, including carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes. You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Cook the orzo separately: Orzo is a small pasta that cooks quickly. It's best to cook it separately from the chicken and vegetables so that it doesn't overcook.
Add the finishing touches: Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, stir in the orzo, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. This adds a creamy texture and bright flavor to the dish.

Conclusion:

This pressure cooker Mediterranean chicken and orzo is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight meal. With tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and fluffy orzo, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.