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Chicken and Orzo Skillet – The Best One-Pan Dinner Recipe

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A flavorful and easy one-pan Chicken and Orzo Skillet made with juicy chicken, tender orzo, herbs, and lemon for a healthy, comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced in halves
  • 1½ cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or dill)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, or feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add uncooked orzo and stir for a minute to lightly toast it.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release flavor. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, add herbs, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Stir gently.
  7. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and orzo is creamy.
  8. Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture or breasts for a leaner option.
  • Add a splash of broth while reheating to maintain creaminess.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or dill enhance flavor more than dried ones.
  • Customize with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
  • Best served fresh but can be stored up to 3 days in the fridge.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeeasily.com/chicken-and-orzo-skillet/