Description
This Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a vibrant and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breast, colorful mixed vegetables, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all tossed in a zesty lemon and oregano sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a quick and healthy dinner option that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Vegetables
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo and set it aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breast with salt, pepper, and oregano. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add the mixed vegetables and cook them until they are tender but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine all ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked orzo, lemon juice and zest, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything thoroughly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through and combined well.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the stir fry and adjust the seasoning as needed with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preferences.
- Serve: Transfer the lemon chicken and veggie orzo stir fry to a serving dish. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of freshness and color before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice to maximize the bright lemon flavor.
- Feel free to substitute or add any vegetables your family prefers, such as zucchini or snap peas.
- Make sure not to overcook the orzo; it should be al dente to maintain texture.
- This dish can be made gluten-free by substituting orzo with a gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
