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One-Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo

One-Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo

This bright and comforting one-pot lemon chicken and orzo combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and tender orzo pasta for an easy, flavorful dinner in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper and brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add orzo to the pot and stir to coat with oil and onions.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, water, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.
  5. Return chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them into the liquid.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through.
  7. Remove chicken and slice or shred as desired. Stir chopped parsley into the orzo, then return chicken to the pot.
  8. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving.