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Speedy Skillet Lemon Herb Chicken & Orzo: Dinner in 30 Minutes!

Whip up a delicious and healthy one-pan lemon herb chicken and orzo dinner in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner Recipes
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
  • Optional garnish: Lemon wedges extra parsley

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the orzo pasta.
  4. Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and fresh lemon juice. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to your taste.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.