Dinner

Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery October 31, 2025October 31, 2025

Introduction

This Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo is a bright and comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts paired with zesty lemon and tender orzo pasta create a deliciously fresh dish that comes together quickly and effortlessly.

The image shows a white plate filled with a bed of creamy orzo pasta that is pale yellow in color with a smooth texture. On top of the orzo, there are three grilled chicken breasts with a golden brown char, showing visible grill marks and a slightly crispy surface. One chicken breast is cut open, revealing a juicy, light beige inside. A slice of lemon sits on the orzo near the chicken, adding a bright yellow accent. Small sprigs of green herbs are sprinkled lightly on the chicken, adding a touch of freshness. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Add orzo pasta to the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: While the orzo cooks, slice the cooked chicken breasts. Once the orzo is ready, stir in the sliced chicken and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a creamy variation, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end of cooking.
Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it lighter or vegetarian by replacing chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas.
Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas in the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
Use fresh oregano if available for a brighter herb flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the orzo has thickened.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl full of orzo pasta, creamy light yellow in color with a smooth texture, filling the base of the bowl. On top, there are three pieces of grilled chicken arranged in the center; two whole and one sliced open showing juicy, white, and tender inner meat with a golden-brown grilled crust. A single bright yellow lemon slice sits on the right edge of the chicken, adding contrast. The dish is garnished with small green herbs sprinkled on the chicken and pasta. The bowl is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but cooking times will be longer. Make sure the chicken is cooked through before removing from the skillet, and adjust orzo cooking time as needed.