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Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a flavorful and hearty one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken breasts marinated in garlic and herbs, served over a bed of zesty lemon-infused orzo pasta.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture onto the chicken breasts and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10 minutes.
  5. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, butter, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
  6. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken longer for more intense flavor.
  • Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
  • For extra lemon flavor, add more zest or juice to taste.
  • Can substitute dried herbs if fresh are unavailable.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with orzo
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg