Print

Lemon Chicken and Orzo

Lemon Chicken and Orzo
Print Recipe

Lemon Chicken and Orzo is a bright, zesty, and comforting dish combining tender chicken with perfectly cooked orzo pasta and fresh lemon flavor. Quick to prepare and packed with savory and fresh notes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that offers a balance of protein and wholesome grains in a one-pan meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts or thighs

Pasta

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Flavorings

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Liquid

  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth

Fats and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or thyme/oregano)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest to retain juiciness.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Toast Orzo: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté minced garlic briefly until fragrant. Add the dry orzo pasta, stirring frequently to toast it lightly and develop a subtle nuttiness.
  3. Cook the Orzo in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook the orzo while stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, until tender but still slightly firm to the bite, absorbing the flavorful broth.
  4. Add Lemon and Finish the Dish: Once the orzo is almost done, stir in fresh lemon juice and additional lemon zest for brightness. Slice the rested chicken and nestle it back into the orzo mixture. Toss gently to combine. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the top for freshness and color.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor.
  • Monitor orzo cooking time closely to avoid overcooking and mushiness.
  • Rest chicken after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Toasting orzo adds a pleasant nuttiness that enhances the dish.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken, orzo, one-pan meal, quick dinner, healthy chicken recipe, citrus chicken, Mediterranean chicken

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/lemon-chicken-and-orzo/