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One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo

One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

Enjoy a comforting and easy One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo, perfect for a cozy dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Switch to chicken breasts for a lighter option if desired.
For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Choose butter for added flavor if you prefer.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be a gentler alternative.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano shines even brighter in this dish.
For the Zesty Creaminess
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Fresh is best, but dried works in a pinch.
  • 1/2 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can substitute for a veggie version.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Gluten-free pasta can be a fantastic swap.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half or milk are lighter options.
  • 1 each Juice of Lemon Adjust to taste for more zing.
  • Salt Essential for flavor; adjust according to your preference.
  • Pepper Essential for flavor; adjust according to your preference.
For the Finishing Touch
  • Fresh Parsley Optional for garnish, chives can be used.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
  3. Sprinkle in the lemon zest, pour in chicken broth and add orzo pasta. Stir everything together until evenly distributed.
  4. Return the chicken to the skillet with the orzo mixture, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  5. Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and the juice of one lemon. Mix well, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  6. Slice the chicken and serve it over the creamy orzo. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

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