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Lemon Chicken Broccoli Orzo Skillet Recipe

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4.1 from 225 reviews

This lemon chicken broccoli orzo skillet is a bright, one-pan dinner that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta with vibrant lemon and garlic flavors. It’s a comforting yet fresh meal perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Orzo and Vegetables

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2½ cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups broccoli florets

Toppings and Garnish

  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: red pepper flakes or fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
  2. Season the chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano evenly to enhance flavor.
  3. Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned, to release its aroma.
  5. Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for 1 minute, stirring constantly to coat it with the oil and garlic flavors.
  6. Add chicken broth and simmer: Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  7. Cook the orzo: Reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid has absorbed.
  8. Add broccoli: Stir in broccoli florets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
  9. Return chicken to skillet: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the orzo and broccoli.
  10. Finish with lemon and cheese: Stir in lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese to meld flavors and create a creamy texture.
  11. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with optional red pepper flakes or fresh parsley, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Cut broccoli into small florets to ensure even cooking and tender texture.
  • If the orzo thickens excessively, add extra chicken broth or water to loosen the mixture.
  • For extra juiciness and flavor, you can substitute chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://dishestocook.com/lemon-chicken-broccoli-orzo-skillet-recipe/