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Lemon Chicken with Orzo

Lemon Chicken with Orzo
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Lemon Chicken with Orzo is a quick, easy, and bright one-pan meal featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs cooked with creamy orzo pasta, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic herbs. This dish balances tangy and savory flavors perfectly, making it a satisfying and wholesome dinner option that’s family-friendly and adaptable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Pasta & Grains

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta

Liquids & Flavorings

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or oregano, chopped (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and lemon zest to ensure flavorful and juicy meat.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and partially cooked. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside while you prepare the orzo.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Toast Orzo: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the dry orzo and toast it lightly by stirring for 2 minutes to bring out its nutty flavor.
  4. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, return the browned chicken to the pan, cover with a lid, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs and Cheese: Once cooked, sprinkle in chopped fresh parsley and thyme or oregano if using. If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy, salty finish. Stir gently to combine and serve warm with extra lemon wedges for garnish.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
  • Do not overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Toasting the orzo lightly enhances its nuttiness.
  • Simmer gently to keep orzo creamy and prevent the chicken from drying out.
  • Adjust seasoning at the end to balance salt, pepper, and lemon to taste.
  • Optional variations include swapping chicken for mushrooms or vegetables for vegetarian version.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.
  • Stir in spinach or kale at the end for added greens and nutrients.
  • For dairy-free, omit Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken, orzo, one-pan meal, quick dinner, Mediterranean chicken, easy chicken recipe, creamy orzo, family-friendly dinner

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/lemon-chicken-with-orzo/