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Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo Recipe

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  • Author: cozykitcheneats
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a fresh and flavorful dish featuring juicy, pan-seared chicken seasoned with garlic and herbs, served over a bed of zesty, buttery lemon orzo. Perfect for a quick and elegant dinner.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add orzo and stir to coat in the butter and garlic. Toast for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  6. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan (if using).
  7. Return chicken to the pan and spoon orzo around it. Cook for 2 more minutes to heat through.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs like basil or dill for a seasonal twist.
  • Add spinach or peas to the orzo for extra veggies.
  • Can be made with shrimp or tofu for variation.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 530mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg