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one-pot lemon chicken orzo recipe

One-Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo

HomeOChicken Editorial
A zesty and comforting one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, flavorful orzo, and fresh lemon.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet or pot
  • 1 wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a bit of lemon zest. Set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add orzo and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook until orzo is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Sprinkle with parsley and thyme. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through.

Serving

  • Serve hot with an additional squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor, and let the dish rest before serving to enhance the taste.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use dried herbs if fresh are not available; adjust quantity as needed.
How to Serve: Pair with a green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken and orzo ahead of time; reheat and combine before serving.
Keyword easy lemon chicken orzo, one-pot lemon chicken orzo, quick chicken orzo