Description

This One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo recipe is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken thighs, orzo pasta, and a zesty lemon sauce, all cooked in a single pot, it’s a simple meal that delivers vibrant flavors and minimal 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)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano. 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 chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add lemon zest, chicken broth, and orzo. Stir to combine.
Return chicken to the skillet on top of the orzo mixture. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Slice chicken and serve over the orzo. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Substitute chicken breasts for thighs for a leaner option, but adjust the cooking time as breasts cook faster.
For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with your favorite vegetables and add more broth for the orzo.
Add more heavy cream for a richer, creamier flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a little added liquid.

Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 20min
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean