This Lemon Chicken Orzo with Veggies is a bright, wholesome, and satisfying one-pan meal loaded with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and delicate orzo pasta cooked in flavorful chicken broth. Finished with fresh lemon juice and herbs, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or healthy meal prep.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5–7 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Orzo
Add the dry orzo to the pan and stir for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast and absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese if using. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Flavor & Texture
This dish offers:
- Tender, juicy chicken
- Creamy and flavorful orzo
- Fresh, vibrant vegetables
- Bright citrus notes from lemon
- A comforting yet light finish
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside:
- A crisp green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed asparagus
- Fresh fruit for dessert
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Chicken Orzo with Veggies is an easy, nutritious, and flavorful meal that brings together tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and bright lemon flavors in every bite. It’s a perfect family-friendly recipe for busy weeknights and meal-prep lunches alike.