If you’re on the lookout for a quick dinner idea that’s both hearty and satisfying, look no further than this Quick Mediterranean Chicken Casserole. This easy recipe combines tender chicken thighs, creamy orzo pasta, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic garlic, all gracefully blended with Mediterranean herbs. In just under an hour, you can create a flavorful dish that promises to please everyone at the table. What’s more, this casserole is baked in one pan, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a delicious meal prep option that provides a nutritional punch!

This Mediterranean Chicken Casserole isn’t just about flavor; it’s also about convenience. You can bring all the elements together in one skillet, making it a straightforward cooking experience. Plus, the ingredients are simple and easy to find, ensuring that you won’t have to hunt down anything exotic. It’s the ideal recipe for those who want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into a dish that’s not only healthy but also deeply satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Quick Mediterranean Chicken Casserole

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of chicken, orzo, bell peppers, and Mediterranean herbs creates a mouthwatering dish.
One-Pan Meal: Cooking and serving from one skillet makes cleanup a breeze.
Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have or your dietary preferences.
Healthy and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, this casserole is both nutritious and satisfying.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking phase of this Quick Mediterranean Chicken Casserole, it’s essential to prepare your workspace and gather all the necessary tools and ingredients. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when it’s time to bake your casserole. Check that you have an oven-safe skillet on hand since this will be your primary cooking vessel. A sturdy wooden spoon or spatula will be useful for stirring and combining ingredients, while some measuring cups will help you ensure accuracy with your servings.

Next, prepare your ingredients for cooking. Chop the bell peppers, dice the red onion, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready will help in moving swiftly through the cooking process without scrambling for ingredients. Make sure to pat your chicken thighs dry so that they sear beautifully in the pan. Getting organized not only helps the cooking process but also minimizes stress in the kitchen!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly once it’s placed in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry using paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. This will enhance the flavors of the chicken, allowing it to shine in the casserole.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In an oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until each piece develops a beautiful golden brown color. The browning process adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the overall dish. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Once heated, toss in the chopped red and green bell peppers, diced red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for approximately 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps to soften the vegetables and brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 5: Toast the Orzo

Now, stir in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes, mixing it thoroughly with the sautéed vegetables. This step intensifies the flavor of the orzo and creates a lovely texture once combined with the liquids.

Step 6: Add Broth and Combine

With the orzo toasted, pour in the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor and will enrich your casserole.

Step 7: Nestle the Chicken

Now it’s time to nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet among the orzo and vegetable mixture. Ensure that the chicken is slightly submerged in the broth to promote even cooking.

Step 8: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or crumbled feta cheese evenly over the chicken. This will create a beautiful, cheesy topping that melts perfectly as it bakes.

Step 9: Bake

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and the orzo is tender. The cheese should be bubbly and lightly browned.

Step 10: Let Rest and Garnish

Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the orzo to set and the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Variations

Protein: Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast, or even turkey for a leaner option.
Vegetables: Add zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
Spices: Experiment with spices like paprika or thyme to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Cooking Notes

Using hot chicken broth keeps the temperature consistent and can help to shorten baking time.
Toasting the orzo beforehand enhances its nutty flavor and yields a better texture.
Letting the casserole rest before serving is important for the flavors to meld properly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
A dollop of Greek yogurt on top adds a creamy tangy touch.

Tips

For added richness, consider stirring in a splash of cream before baking.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 550 per serving
Protein: 40g
Sodium: 700mg

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but ensure you adjust the cooking time as breast meat may cook faster than thighs.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients earlier in the day and combine them before baking for a quick dinner.

Can I freeze leftover casserole?

Yes, let it cool completely, then package it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

What can I serve this with?

This casserole pairs well with a light salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete your meal.

Conclusion

The Quick Mediterranean Chicken Casserole is an excellent go-to dish for busy evenings when you want something hearty and delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. Bursting with flavors and delightful textures, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul. With its efficient cooking method and uncomplicated ingredient list, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t hesitate to try your own variations, and please share your experiences or suggestions in the comments below. Your feedback makes our recipe community stronger!