Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a fresh, zesty, and comforting one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor. Tender, juicy chicken is pan-seared with garlic and herbs, then served over creamy, lemony orzo that’s bursting with brightness. It’s a quick, balanced dinner that feels elegant yet is easy enough for a busy weeknight.

ingredients

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:
boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighsgarlic (minced)olive oilbutterItalian seasoning or dried herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary)salt and pepperpaprikalemons (zest and juice)

For the lemon orzo:
orzo pastabutter or olive oilgarlic (minced)chicken brothlemon zest and juiceparmesan cheese (grated)fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)salt and pepper

directions

For the chicken:

Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs.

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add chicken and cook 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temp). Remove and set aside.

Add garlic to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds. Deglaze with a splash of lemon juice and scrape up any browned bits.

Return chicken to the pan briefly to coat with pan juices, then transfer to a plate.

For the lemon orzo:

In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic for 1 minute.

Add orzo and stir to toast for 1-2 minutes.

Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.

Stir in lemon zest, juice, parmesan, salt, and pepper.

Serve the chicken over a bed of lemon orzo, garnished with fresh herbs and a lemon wedge.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add spinach or peas to the orzo for extra greens.

Swap parmesan with feta for a Mediterranean twist.

Use rice or couscous instead of orzo if preferred.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Top with toasted pine nuts for crunch and richness.

storage/reheating

Store chicken and orzo separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo creamy.Not recommended for freezing as orzo may become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but adjust cooking time accordingly and finish in the oven if needed.

What can I use instead of orzo?

Try small pasta like ditalini or even rice.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes—mild flavors with a bright, cheesy pasta kids love.

Can I make the orzo creamier?

Stir in a splash of cream or more parmesan for added richness.

Can I cook everything in one pan?

Yes—cook chicken first, then orzo in the same pan to absorb all the flavor.

Can I meal prep this?

Definitely—store portions in containers and reheat as needed.

What herbs work best?

Thyme, parsley, basil, rosemary, and oregano all work beautifully.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Only if made with gluten-free orzo or rice as a substitute.

Can I add wine to the orzo?

Yes, deglaze with a splash of white wine before adding broth.

What should I serve it with?

A light salad or roasted veggies pair perfectly.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a bright, hearty, and flavor-packed dish that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. With juicy herb-seasoned chicken and creamy lemon orzo, every bite is rich, zesty, and comforting. A simple, elegant meal that you’ll want to make again and again.