Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe

Introduction

This Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and bright lemon flavors. It’s an easy dish to prepare, perfect for anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup chicken broth or low-sodium broth
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the orzo in a medium saucepan of boiling salted water according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add to the skillet and sauté until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and mixed vegetables for 3-4 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
4. Step 4: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the drained orzo, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
6. Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if using.

Tips & Variations

• Use different vegetables like zucchini or snap peas depending on what you have on hand or seasonal availability.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
• Swap chicken breast for thighs for a juicier texture.
• Try adding a handful of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for a creamy finish.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep the orzo moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, couscous, or even small elbow macaroni. Adjust cooking times according to the pasta’s package instructions.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This stir fry holds up well in the fridge and makes a great option for prepared meals. Keep the lemon juice fresh by adding a little extra before reheating to brighten the flavors.

Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 143 reviews

• Author: Ella
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a bright, flavorful, and healthy meal featuring tender chicken breast, vibrant mixed vegetables, and tender orzo pasta all sautéed together with fresh lemon juice and zest. Quick to make, it combines juicy chicken, a medley of crisp vegetables, and zesty lemon undertones, perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or an impressive lunch. Garnished with fresh parsley, it offers a balanced plate full of protein, vegetables, and carbs in a single skillet.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins

• 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 & Oils

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup chicken broth or low-sodium broth

Seasonings & Garnish

• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the orzo and set it aside.
2. Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté it until cooked through and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and the mixed vegetables. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp and vibrant in color.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the drained orzo, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir all the ingredients together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the dish to heat through thoroughly.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stir fry and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired to enhance brightness and flavor.
6. Serve: Transfer the stir fry to serving bowls or plates. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
• Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like zucchini, snap peas, or spinach based on what you have available.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute orzo with quinoa or gluten-free pasta.
• Ensure not to overcook the vegetables to maintain their crisp texture and nutritional value.
• Fresh lemon zest adds more natural brightness than bottled lemon juice, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keywords: lemon chicken, orzo stir fry, chicken and vegetables, easy dinner, one-pan meal, Mediterranean chicken, quick chicken recipe