Description

This Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a vibrant, one-pan dinner featuring tender chicken seasoned with garlic and herbs, served over creamy lemon orzo. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels special.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken:

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp butter

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp dried Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the Lemon Orzo:

1 tbsp butter

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups chicken broth

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1/2 lemon

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Season the chicken:
Pat chicken dry and season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Cook the chicken:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Remove and set aside.
Make the lemon orzo:
In the same pan, add 1 tbsp butter. Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Finish the orzo:
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined.

Assemble and serve:
Return the chicken to the pan on top of the orzo. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges, if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

You can add spinach or peas to the orzo during the last few minutes for added veggies.
Chicken can be grilled or baked ahead of time if needed.
Swap Parmesan with feta for a Mediterranean twist!