Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken with a tangy lemon orzo. The savory garlic herb marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors, while the lemon adds a refreshing burst to the orzo, making it a well-balanced and satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare and ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Lemon Orzo

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
2. Meanwhile, cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove from the skillet and let rest.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the cooked orzo and toss it in the butter until heated through.
5. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the orzo and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Slice the chicken breasts and serve over the lemon orzo. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus marination time)
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
• For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the chicken before cooking.
• Swap the orzo with couscous or rice if you prefer a different type of grain.
• For a creamier orzo, add a little cream or grated Parmesan cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. To prevent the orzo from drying out, add a splash of water or broth while reheating

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe and will stay moist and tender.

Can I make the orzo ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the orzo in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat with a bit of butter or olive oil before serving.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and orzo separately. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when ready to eat.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for more color and flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a well-balanced and vibrant dish that combines fresh, zesty flavors with savory chicken. It’s simple enough for a quick dinner but elegant enough for entertaining. Whether served as a weeknight meal or for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its deliciously bright and aromatic flavors.

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