Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Chicken Orzo is a bright and comforting one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and zesty lemon with tender orzo pasta. This simple, flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 fresh lemons (zest and juice)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and oregano; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the juices.
5. Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat, stir in the lemon zest, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra brightness, add fresh chopped parsley or basil just before serving.
• Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture if preferred.
• Use vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian version (replace chicken accordingly).
• If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking garlic.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or pastina work well, but cooking times may vary slightly. Adjust the broth quantity as needed to ensure proper cooking.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free orzo or a small gluten-free pasta alternative, and ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 107 reviews

This vibrant Lemon Chicken Orzo recipe features tender, golden-brown chicken pieces cooked in a lemony, garlicky broth with orzo pasta that soaks up all the flavors. A perfect weeknight meal that’s both comforting and refreshing, combining simple ingredients into a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired dish.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Marinade

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), diced into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste

Pasta and Broth

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 fresh lemons (zest and juice separated)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy serving.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-7 minutes until the chicken pieces turn golden brown and are cooked through.
3. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and dried oregano, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant to infuse the chicken with bright, herbal notes.
4. Incorporate Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat the pasta in the flavorful juices and oil, preparing it to absorb the broth.
5. Simmer with Broth and Lemon: Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth along with the lemon juice. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, stir in the fresh lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus aroma, and serve the dish warm for a bright, satisfying meal.

Notes

• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• For extra freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.
• If orzo absorbs liquid too quickly, add a little more chicken broth or water to avoid drying out.
• This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth.

Keywords: lemon chicken, orzo pasta, one-pan meal, easy dinner, quick weeknight recipe, Mediterranean chicken, garlic chicken, lemon zest, healthy chicken dish