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Zesty Lemon Chicken Orzo

Zesty Lemon Chicken Orzo

Zesty Lemon Chicken Orzo is a quick, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights, blending creamy textures with vibrant flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Thighs can be used for more juiciness.
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Ditalini or couscous can be used as alternatives.
For the Broth
  • 4 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Can substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
For the Zing
  • 2 medium Fresh Lemons For both zest and juice.
For the Aromatics
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced, fresh is preferable.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Can substitute with Italian seasoning.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use vegetable or canola oil if needed.
For Taste
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by dicing boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Gather all your other ingredients: orzo, chicken broth, fresh lemons, garlic, and seasonings.
  2. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season generously with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and dried oregano, letting them cook for about 1 minute until aromatic, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
  4. Add the orzo pasta into the skillet, stirring thoroughly to coat with the chicken juices and aromatics.
  5. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cover for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Once the orzo is tender, remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated lemon zest.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Can freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of chicken broth.

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