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One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo

One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo
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One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo is a quick, vibrant, and comforting dish combining tender, juicy chicken with fragrant herbs, zesty lemon, and creamy orzo pasta all cooked together in one skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual meals, this recipe delivers bright flavors and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Pasta and Broth

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth

Produce

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or oregano)

Pantry

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and half of the fresh herbs to ensure flavorful and juicy chicken after cooking.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Toast Orzo: Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same pan and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the dry orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to develop a nutty aroma.
  4. Add Broth and Cook Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Nestle the partially cooked chicken back into the pan. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, until the orzo is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Finish with Lemon and Herbs: Remove the lid. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining herbs. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, bright flavors and perfect texture.

Notes

  • Use room temperature chicken for even cooking and juiciness.
  • Toasting the orzo adds a subtle, toasty flavor that enhances the dish.
  • Simmer gently on medium-low heat after adding broth to prevent sticking or burning.
  • Keep the pan covered while cooking to trap steam and ensure tender orzo and juicy chicken.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their bright flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan, lemon herb chicken, orzo, easy dinner, weeknight meal, quick recipe, chicken skillet, gluten-free option, Mediterranean flavors

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/one-pan-lemon-herb-chicken-orzo/