One Pan Lemon Chicken and Veggie Orzo
One Pan Lemon Chicken and Veggie Orzo is a bright, comforting meal that delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2½ cups chicken broth
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby spinach
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Cook chicken until lightly browned; remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.
- Add zucchini and tomatoes; cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Return chicken to pan and simmer 3–5 minutes until fully cooked.
- Stir in spinach until wilted, then add Parmesan.
- Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Swap veggies with asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers.
One Pan Lemon Chicken and Veggie Orzo is a bright, comforting meal that delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup. Tender pieces of chicken are seasoned simply and cooked alongside orzo pasta that soaks up a fragrant blend of garlic, chicken broth, and fresh lemon zest. The lemon adds a lively, fresh contrast to the savory base, keeping the dish light and balanced.
Colorful vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, and spinach bring texture, freshness, and nutrition, making it a complete meal in one pan. Parmesan cheese adds a subtle richness without overpowering the citrus notes. Everything cooks together, allowing the orzo to become creamy and flavorful while the chicken stays juicy. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, this dish feels wholesome, satisfying, and elegant without being complicated. Served warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, it’s the kind of meal that’s both nourishing and effortlessly delicious.
