Imagine a meal that combines the zesty brightness of lemon, the tender juiciness of perfectly seared chicken, and the comforting embrace of creamy orzo - all prepared in just one skillet! This Mediterranean-inspired dish is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a food enthusiast craving bold flavors, this Lemon Chicken and Orzo One Skillet will become your new favorite go-to recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of boneless and skinless chicken thighs, 1 cup of orzo pasta, 4 cups of chicken broth, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat for about 1 minute until it shimmers.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. This will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Next, add the 1 cup of orzo pasta to the skillet and stir it with the garlic for about 1 minute. This toasts the orzo slightly and adds depth to the flavor.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, and add the lemon juice and zest. Stir to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Allow the orzo to simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- While the orzo is cooking, slice the seared chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
- After the orzo is cooked, return the sliced chicken to the skillet and stir to combine everything. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and taste the dish. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- To serve, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your Lemon Chicken and Orzo One Skillet dish hot!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect, safe cooking.
- Toasting Matters: Take a moment to lightly toast the orzo before adding liquid - this simple step enhances the pasta's nutty flavor profile.
- Liquid Absorption Technique: Stir occasionally while the orzo cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Zest vs. Juice: Use both lemon zest and juice for a more complex, bright citrus flavor that truly elevates the dish.
- Fresh Herb Finish: Chopped fresh parsley isn't just a garnish - it adds a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
- One-Skillet Magic: Resist the urge to use multiple pans - the layered flavors develop by cooking everything in the same skillet.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 120mg
