Lemon Chicken Orzo
A delightful dish that combines zesty lemon flavors with hearty chicken and tender orzo pasta, perfect for busy evenings or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts Ensure even thickness for uniform cooking.
- 1 cup orzo pasta Can substitute with other small pasta shapes.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing chicken and garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the flavor of the dish.
- 1 piece lemon, juiced and zested Adjust the amount to taste for more tanginess.
- 4 cups chicken broth Add more if needed during cooking.
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning chicken and the dish.
- as needed fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish Fresh herbs enhance the taste and presentation.
Instructions
Cooking Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Add chicken to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden-brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and let it rest on a cutting board.
Cooking Orzo
- In the same pan, sauté minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant.
- Add orzo pasta and stir to coat with oil.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for around 10 minutes or until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Finishing touches
- Stir in lemon juice and zest.
- Slice cooked chicken and return it to the pan, mixing well with orzo.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.