Lemon Chicken and Orzo
Lemon Chicken and Orzo is a bright, flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts with zesty lemon, tender orzo pasta, and fresh herbs for a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the lemon zest.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the orzo to the skillet and toast lightly for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cook the orzo until tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10 minutes.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return to the skillet.
- Stir in lemon juice, remaining lemon zest, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving, if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.