Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo

Name: Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup orzo pasta; Zest and juice of 2 lemons; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Favorites

I absolutely adore this Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo recipe! It brings a burst of fresh flavors that truly elevate a simple weeknight dinner. The zesty lemon combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked orzo creates a comforting dish that warms the soul. Cooking everything in one skillet means fewer dishes and maximizes flavor since all the juices blend beautifully together. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds once they take a bite!

Created by

India Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:13:36.843Z

When I first tried making Skillet Lemon Chicken with Orzo, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The balance of tangy lemon and savory chicken is just perfect. I recommend using fresh herbs and good-quality chicken to enhance the taste. This method allows the chicken to soak in the flavor while the orzo absorbs all those delicious cooking juices.

One tip I found helpful was to let the chicken rest before slicing. This keeps it juicy and makes the dish look more appealing when plated. I also love how quick the dish comes together, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights!

Reasons to Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty lemon flavor that awakens the palate
Tender chicken that stays juicy throughout cooking
Easy one-skillet preparation for minimal cleanup

The Role of Lemon in This Dish

Lemon is not just an acidity agent in this Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo; it's the star that brings balance to the dish. The zest adds an aromatic quality that plays wonderfully with the chicken's natural flavors, while the juice brightens the overall taste profile. To achieve the best lemon flavor, make sure to use fresh lemons rather than bottled juice, as the quality really shines through in the final dish.

When juicing the lemons, roll them on the counter before cutting to help release more juice. If you’re looking for a little less acidity, you can combine lemon juice with a touch of honey to balance the tartness without compromising flavor.

Choosing the Right Chicken

Selecting the right cut of chicken is crucial for achieving a dish that is both juicy and flavorful. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and absorb the lemon marinade beautifully. However, if you prefer dark meat, use boneless thighs for a richer taste; just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as dark meat may take a few extra minutes to cook through.

It’s also important to evenly season the chicken with salt and pepper before searing. Neglecting this step can result in bland chicken. For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs a few hours ahead—this can further enhance its juiciness and impart deeper flavors.

Perfecting the Orzo

Cooking orzo to the perfect texture is key for the success of this dish. Orzo should be cooked until al dente, which takes about 8-10 minutes once added to the simmering broth. Keep an eye on it; stirring occasionally will help prevent any sticking. If the orzo absorbs too much liquid, you can always add a splash of extra chicken broth to ensure it remains creamy and not dry.

Besides being a fantastic vehicle for the lemony sauce, orzo can be substituted with other small pastas like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you use a different type of grain, as each variety has its own timing for optimal doneness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Orzo

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup orzo pasta
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Cooking Instructions

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and sear for 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Orzo

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, and orzo. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Combine and Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally.

Serve

After cooking, sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh finish. Serve hot, and enjoy your flavorful Skillet Lemon Chicken with Orzo!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. If you prefer, you can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the dish for added nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo can easily be made in advance for meal prep. Cook the dish as directed and allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When stored correctly, leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to bring back its creamy texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. This dish freezes well and can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat. Keep in mind that the orzo may become slightly softer after freezing, so it's best consumed fresh if possible.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dinner presentation, serve the Skillet Lemon Chicken with a side of steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. This not only adds vibrant color to the plate but also complements the dish's citrusy flavors. A light salad with arugula dressed in a simple vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, adding a crisp contrast.

For a fun twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach into the skillet just before serving. These will meld perfectly with the flavors of the chicken and orzo while adding extra nutrients and texture. Garnishing with additional lemon slices can also enhance the appeal as well as the flavor.

Common Troubleshooting

If you find the chicken is not as tender as you like, it's essential to ensure it's cooked through but not overdone. Use a meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F. If using thighs, they may take longer, so adjust your cook time accordingly. Consider covering the skillet for a few minutes to trap steam, which helps keep the chicken moist.

Should the orzo turn out too sticky or mushy, ensure you monitor the cooking time closely next time, as overcooking is typically the culprit. You can also add more liquid gradually, rather than all at once, to maintain a better texture that absorbs the flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat orzo?

Yes, whole wheat orzo will work well but may require additional cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for chicken breasts?

You can use chicken thighs or even shrimp as a great alternative in this recipe.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and orzo separately and combine them when ready to serve.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

A simple side salad or steamed vegetables are perfect complements to this delicious dish.