Name: One-Pan Lemon Chicken & Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion or 1 shallot, finely chopped; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth or stock; 1 lemon, juice and zest; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); 1 tablespoon butter (optional)

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One-Pan Lemon Chicken & Orzo is a fresh, zesty, and satisfying meal I love making when I want something easy, comforting, and full of flavor. Tender chicken is seared until golden, then simmered with orzo pasta in a bright lemony broth until everything is perfectly cooked—all in one pan with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish gives me a complete meal in just one pan—juicy chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and a rich, lemony sauce that brings it all together. The orzo absorbs all the savory juices and becomes creamy like risotto, but with less effort. It’s cozy enough for a weeknight dinner and elegant enough to serve to guests.

Ingredients

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

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Onion or shallot, finely chopped
Orzo pasta
Chicken broth or stock
Lemon juice and zest
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Salt and black pepper
Parmesan cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
Butter (optional, for richness)

Directions

I season the chicken with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet or sauté pan, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. I remove it from the pan and set it aside.
In the same pan, I reduce the heat and sauté the onion until softened, then add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
I stir in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes.
I pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
I return the chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer over medium-low heat for about 12–15 minutes, until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
I remove the lid, stir in butter and Parmesan (if using), and cook uncovered for a few more minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.
I garnish with fresh herbs and more lemon zest before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Total time: About 35–40 minutes

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. For a spicier version, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes. If I want a creamy twist, I stir in a splash of cream or more Parmesan at the end. I’ve also made it with shrimp instead of chicken, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

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 stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo. It keeps its flavor well and makes a great lunch the next day.

FAQs

Can I use rice instead of orzo?

Orzo cooks much faster and has a pasta-like texture, but I’ve used quick-cooking rice in a pinch. I just adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed.

What kind of chicken works best?

I usually use boneless thighs for more flavor and tenderness, but chicken breasts work well too. I just watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I skip the Parmesan and butter and use olive oil only. The dish is still flavorful thanks to the lemon and herbs.

Does the orzo need to be pre-cooked?

No, I cook the orzo right in the same pan with the broth. It absorbs all the flavor from the chicken and aromatics, making the dish more delicious.

Can I make this ahead?

It’s best served fresh, but I sometimes prep the chicken and aromatics earlier in the day and cook it all together when ready. Leftovers also reheat well.

Conclusion

One-Pan Lemon Chicken & Orzo is one of those reliable, flavorful meals that feels fancy but is super easy to make. With juicy chicken, creamy orzo, and bright lemony notes, it’s a complete dinner I can throw together in no time—perfect for busy nights or when I just want a comforting, delicious plate of food without the mess.