Chicken Tomato Zucchini and Orzo Stew

Cozy up with a bowl of hearty and flavorful Chicken Tomato Zucchini and Orzo Stew, a one-pot wonder that's perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. This nourishing recipe combines tender shredded chicken thighs, wholesome zucchini, and the richness of crushed tomatoes, all simmered in a savory blend of chicken broth, oregano, and thyme. Orzo pasta adds a satisfying texture, while a finishing touch of fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese lends a vibrant, comforting flavor. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a quick cook time, this stew is as simple as it is delicious. Ideal for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a balanced, veggie-packed meal with a touch of Mediterranean inspiration!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium Zucchini, chopped into half-moons
• 14 ounces Crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups Chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 0.75 cup Orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Season the chicken thighs with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper on both sides.

Step 2

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot, then add the diced onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the chopped zucchini to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.

Step 6

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then add the dried oregano and dried thyme. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Return the chicken thighs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 8

Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 9

Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.

Step 10

Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper, if needed.

Step 11

Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2582.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2269.5

Total Fat 99.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 29.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 614.4mg	0%
Sodium 5948.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 165.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 20.2g	0%
Total Sugars 30.5g
Protein 182.7g	0%

Vitamin D 31.8IU	0%
Calcium 1026.2mg	0%
Iron 17.7mg	0%
Potassium 4134.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 39.2%

Protein: 32.0%

Carbs: 28.9%