Zesty One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo Recipe You’ll Love!

Enjoy this Zesty One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo Recipe, a deliciously simple and customizable meal that whisks you away to the Mediterranean.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 450

For the Chicken

2 pieces Chicken Breasts Lean protein option that can be swapped for shrimp or tofu.

For the Orzo

For Cooking

2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for searing the chicken.
2 cloves Garlic Minced garlic works best, though shallots are a milder alternative.

For the Flavor

1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Adjust to taste to control the lemon intensity.
1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Crucial for zesty punch.
4 cups Chicken Broth Choose low-sodium for a heart-healthy option or use vegetable broth for vegetarian.

For Garnishing

2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley, thyme) Adds a lovely finish; dried herbs can be used in a pinch.

Steps

Begin by chopping your garlic and fresh herbs. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until golden-brown. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add orzo, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir together, ensuring orzo is well-coated.
Return the seared chicken to the pot, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth.
Stir in chopped fresh herbs just before serving for an elevated flavor.

Serve with a sprinkle of additional fresh herbs for an extra burst of freshness!