Name: Irresistible Lemon Chicken and Veggie Orzo Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 carrot, julienned or thinly sliced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1/4 cup chicken broth or water; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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This Irresistible Lemon Chicken and Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a bright, flavorful dish that I turn to when I want something comforting yet light. Juicy lemon-infused chicken, tender-crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked orzo come together in one skillet for a quick, satisfying meal that tastes as vibrant as it looks. Whether I’m cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this stir fry takes all the best parts of a pasta dish and a stir fry and blends them into one balanced, hearty bowl. The orzo cooks up beautifully and soaks in all the zesty lemon flavor, while the veggies add freshness and crunch. It’s super adaptable, comes together in under 30 minutes, and gives me that perfect mix of protein, carbs, and greens. Plus, everything cooks in one pan, which means minimal cleanup — and I’m always here for that. Irresistible Lemon Chicken and Veggie Orzo Stir Fry

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
Orzo pasta
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Zucchini, chopped
Red bell pepper, sliced
Broccoli florets
Carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
Lemon juice and zest
Chicken broth or water
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

I start by cooking the orzo in salted water until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté the chicken with salt, pepper, and a bit of lemon zest until golden and cooked through.
I remove the chicken and set it aside, then add a little more oil to the pan and toss in the garlic and vegetables.
I stir-fry the veggies for about 4–5 minutes, just until they’re tender-crisp but still vibrant.
I return the chicken to the skillet, add the cooked orzo, lemon juice, and a splash of chicken broth to bring everything together.
I toss everything gently until the orzo is coated and warmed through, then finish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan if I’m using it.
I serve it hot, straight from the skillet.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook — so I’ve got a wholesome, delicious meal on the table in just 30 minutes.

Variations

I like to swap the veggies depending on what’s in season — asparagus, snap peas, spinach, or mushrooms all work well. Sometimes I use shrimp instead of chicken, or skip the meat entirely and make it vegetarian with chickpeas or white beans. For extra richness, I stir in a dollop of butter or a splash of cream at the end. If I want a spicier kick, I toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. It also reheats well in the microwave, but I make sure not to overcook it so the orzo doesn’t dry out. Irresistible Lemon Chicken and Veggie Orzo Stir Fry

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often make a big batch and portion it for lunches. It holds up really well in the fridge and tastes just as good the next day.

What kind of chicken works best?

I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs — thighs add more flavor and stay juicy, but breasts work great too.

Can I use rice instead of orzo?

Absolutely. I’ve used cooked rice or even quinoa as a substitute when I’m out of orzo, and it still turns out delicious.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Definitely. It stores well, reheats beautifully, and keeps its texture and flavor for several days.

What can I serve with this?

It’s a complete meal on its own, but I sometimes serve it with a simple green salad or warm pita bread if I’m feeding a bigger crowd.

Conclusion

This Irresistible Lemon Chicken and Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is one of those recipes I come back to again and again. It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with everything I need in one pan — bright lemon, juicy chicken, tender veggies, and satisfying orzo. Whether I’m whipping it up on a weeknight or packing it for lunch, it always leaves me feeling full and happy.