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Lemon Chicken and Orzo: A Fresh and Zesty One Pan Dinner

Close-up of golden Lemon Chicken and Orzo Dinner served in a black skillet, topped with fresh parsley.
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Cook tender chicken and creamy orzo together in a single pan for a bright, zesty weeknight meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

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  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 4 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  6. Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo mixture.
  7. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender.
  8. Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the orzo gently with a fork.
  9. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, if using. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For best results, use low-sodium chicken broth since you add salt separately.
  • If the orzo seems too dry before the chicken is cooked through, add a splash more broth or water.
  • You can add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes along with the orzo for extra color and flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://whiskdaily.com/lemon-chicken-and-orzo-one-pan-dinner/