Description
A simple, one-pot meal combining tender chicken thighs, zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and tender orzo pasta for a quick, flavorful, and comforting dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs, juicy and seasoned
Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta (rice-shaped)
Citrus & Aromatics
- 2 fresh lemons (zest and juice)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids & Oil
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano. Place them skin-side down and cook until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Aromatics: In the same pot, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Toast the Orzo: Add orzo pasta to the pot and stir to coat with oil and garlic. Toast for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Simmer and Cook Chicken Together: Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the orzo mixture. Cover and simmer on low for 15-20 minutes, until orzo is tender and chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve warm, optionally topped with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier meat and richer broth.
- Don’t skip toasting the orzo to maintain perfect texture and add flavor.
- Serve immediately since orzo absorbs liquid quickly.
- Fresh lemon zest adds bright aromatic oils, enhancing flavor.
- Simmer on low heat to cook chicken evenly and prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-pot stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: one pot, lemon garlic chicken, orzo, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, Mediterranean, chicken thighs