Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a flavorful, one-pan dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, this One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo is the answer. The tangy lemon enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, while the orzo absorbs the delicious sauce, making each bite a treat. Plus, cooking everything in one pot means less mess and cleanup!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup orzo pasta
1/2 cup heavy cream
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Add the lemon zest, chicken broth, and orzo to the skillet, stirring to combine.
Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the orzo mixture. Bring everything to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Slice the chicken thighs and serve over the orzo mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Chicken Breast: You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Be sure to adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts cook faster than thighs.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Add extra broth or vegetable stock to make sure the orzo has enough liquid to cook.
Creamy Version: For a richer flavor, add more heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese to the dish.
Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme, basil, or rosemary for a slightly different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, add a little chicken broth or water to the skillet and warm over low heat until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs, but keep in mind that they will cook faster. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of added liquid to keep it moist.

3. Can I freeze this recipe?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up in a skillet or microwave.

4. How do I make the dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne pepper when cooking the chicken or onions.

5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or milk as a lighter alternative to heavy cream. However, keep in mind the sauce will be slightly less creamy.

6. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like small shells, farfalle, or ditalini. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

7. Is this dish gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains orzo, which is made from wheat. However, you can use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

8. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in along with the orzo and cook as directed.

9. How can I make the dish more tangy?

If you love a stronger lemon flavor, you can add more lemon juice or a bit of lemon zest. You could also add a splash of white wine for an extra tang.

10. Can I use broth other than chicken broth?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water, though the flavor will be less rich. For a deeper flavor, consider using homemade broth.

Conclusion

One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo is a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner—delicious, comforting, and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender chicken, creamy orzo, and the bright, zesty lemon is a winner every time. Whether you make it for yourself or a family dinner, this recipe will surely become a go-to favorite.