Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together tender, seared chicken breasts seasoned with garlic and herbs, paired with a zesty lemon orzo pasta. This one-pan meal is quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining. The orzo absorbs the citrusy broth and herbs, making every bite rich and refreshing.

ingredients

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

chicken breastsolive oilgarliccluck seasoning or Italian seasoningfresh thymefresh rosemarylemon juicelemon zestorzo pastaonionchicken brothparmesansaltblack pepperfresh parsley (optional for garnish)

directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your choice of garlic herb seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.

Stir in orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes.

Add chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.

Cook the orzo uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.

Stir in grated parmesan and return the chicken to the pan.

Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, spooning some of the orzo mixture over the chicken.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.

Add a splash of cream to the orzo for a creamier consistency.

Toss in spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.

Replace orzo with couscous or quinoa if desired.

Include cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to rehydrate the orzo.Or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the orzo and chicken in advance and reheat before serving.

What if I don’t have orzo?

You can substitute with rice, small pasta shapes like ditalini, or even quinoa.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Omit the parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative to keep the dish dairy-free.

Is this meal freezer-friendly?

The chicken can be frozen, but orzo tends to become mushy after freezing. Best to enjoy fresh.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use about 1/3 the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Is this a kid-friendly dish?

Absolutely, it’s flavorful but not spicy, making it great for the whole family.

What can I serve with this?

It pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a satisfying, zesty, and comforting dish that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Its simple preparation and elegant flavors make it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavor in every bite.