Print

One-Pan Lemon Chicken & Orzo

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

One‑Pan Lemon Chicken & Orzo is a bright, comforting meal with juicy chicken, tender orzo, and fresh lemon cooked together in one skillet. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or peas (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a little lemon zest.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add the orzo and stir to toast slightly.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Nestle the chicken back into the pan with the orzo.
  6. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  7. If using spinach or peas, stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
  8. Finish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Bone‑in chicken thighs work well too but require a bit more cooking time.
  • Swap spinach for kale or add sun‑dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end.
  • If the orzo looks dry before it’s done, add an extra splash of broth.

Nutrition

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