One-Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo

• 12 oz orzo
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. 2 Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
3. 3 Remove chicken and set aside.
4. 4 Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 1 minute.
5. 5 Stir in orzo, coating it with oil and garlic.
6. 6 Add chicken broth, water, lemon juice, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil.
7. 7 Return chicken to the pot, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and orzo is tender.
8. 8 Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
9. 9 Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. 10 Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid

Variations

• Add a handful of spinach or arugula in the last few minutes for a boost of greens.
• Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.

Substitutions

• Use vegetable broth and omit chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Substitute orzo with rice if preferred.

Pairings

• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• A side of roasted vegetables adds color and nutrients.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra lemon flavor, zest the lemons and sprinkle over the dish before serving.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for an extra 5 minutes.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• A glass of crisp white wine complements the lemony flavors.

FAQ