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Lemon Garlic Chicken and Orzo

Lemon Garlic Chicken and Orzo
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This vibrant Lemon Garlic Chicken and Orzo recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with fresh garlic and bright lemon flavors, paired with perfectly cooked orzo pasta. Quick to prepare and made from simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, it offers a balanced meal full of zesty, savory, and fresh notes. Ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining, this dish is sure to become a household favorite with its comforting yet lively taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Pasta and Sauce

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Zest and juice the lemons, mince the garlic, and chop the fresh parsley. Trim the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper to infuse flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook 5 minutes per side until golden brown and nearly cooked through, locking in the juices and forming a flavorful crust. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Toast Orzo: Reduce heat to medium, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the orzo and stir constantly to toast lightly, enhancing its nuttiness and preventing sticking.
  4. Add Broth, Lemon, and Simmer: Pour in chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, allowing them to finish cooking as the orzo absorbs the lemony, garlicky sauce.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Once orzo is tender and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Stir gently and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken; cook in batches if needed.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
  • Toast the orzo before cooking to enhance flavor and maintain texture.
  • Simmer gently to prevent burning and overcooking.
  • Let the dish rest briefly after cooking to allow juices to redistribute for tender chicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon garlic chicken, orzo, easy dinner, weeknight meal, quick recipe, healthy chicken, Mediterranean dish

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/lemon-garlic-chicken-and-orzo/