Revamp your dinner routine: easy lemon chicken orzo recipe for a weeknight treat

Indulge in the tantalizing fusion of flavors with our delectable lemon chicken recipe orzo. This vibrant dish combines the tangy zest of lemons with the succulent tenderness of chicken and the hearty texture of orzo pasta, creating a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orzo:

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the Lemon Sauce:

• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Cook the Orzo:

• In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions.

4. Make the Lemon Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

5. Combine the Ingredients:

• Once the orzo is cooked, drain it and return it to the saucepan. Add the chicken, lemon sauce, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Stir to combine.

6. Season to Taste:

• Taste the dish and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to your preference.

7. Serve:

• Serve the lemon chicken recipe orzo immediately, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Variations

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon sauce for a kick of heat.
• Creamy: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the lemon sauce for a richer and creamier texture.
• Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the dish for extra nutrition and color.

Tips

• Use fresh lemons: Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will become tough and dry.
• Add a squeeze of lemon: Before serving, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish to enhance the zesty flavor.

Benefits

• Healthy: This dish is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
• Versatile: It can be served as a main course, side dish, or even a light lunch.
• Easy to make: The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe accessible to all skill levels.

Conclusion

Our lemon chicken recipe orzo is a culinary delight that combines the refreshing acidity of lemons, the tender juiciness of chicken, and the hearty satisfaction of orzo. Perfect for any occasion, this dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

FAQ

1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use any short-cut pasta, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lemon sauce and cook the chicken and orzo up to 2 days in advance. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine the ingredients.

3. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or crusty bread.