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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 vibrant and comforting dinner packed with tender chicken, zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and creamy orzo pasta. This quick and easy meal combines bright, fresh flavors and hearty textures using a convenient one-pan cooking method, perfect for busy weeknights and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of dried herbs (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Orzo and Broth

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 fresh lemon

Aromatics and Herbs

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Zest of 1 lemon (plus extra for garnish)

Optional

  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried herbs if desired. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear each side until golden brown and nearly cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside to keep juicy.
  2. Sauté garlic and herbs: In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in fresh thyme leaves to release their aroma and flavor into the oil.
  3. Cook the orzo: Add orzo pasta directly to the skillet and stir to coat it with the garlicky oil. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until orzo is creamy and tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Return chicken to pan: Nestle the browned chicken breasts into the orzo mixture. Cover and cook over low heat until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
  5. Finish with lemon zest and parsley: Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh lemon zest and chopped parsley over the top. If desired, grate Parmesan cheese over the dish for a creamy, cheesy finish. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry before searing for a better crust and richer flavor.
  • Do not skip fresh lemon zest; it adds a bright, vibrant flavor beyond lemon juice alone.
  • Use low to medium heat when simmering orzo to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Stir gently but regularly to cook orzo evenly without breaking the pasta.
  • If orzo looks dry before tender, add a splash more chicken broth as needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan, lemon herb chicken, orzo, quick dinner, weeknight meal, easy recipe, Mediterranean, chicken and pasta, lemon chicken

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