Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo

Name: Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Juice of 2 lemons; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics Reimagined

I love making Skillet Lemon Chicken with Orzo for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. The bright citrus notes perfectly complement the tender chicken, while the orzo absorbs all the delicious juices, creating a cozy dish that feels truly special. It’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying the food with family. In just about 30 minutes, I can create a comforting bowl of goodness that satisfies everyone’s cravings and brings a burst of sunshine to the table!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:15:35.655Z

When I first tried making Skillet Lemon Chicken with Orzo, I was surprised by how quickly everything came together. The zesty marinade made all the difference, infusing the chicken with a bright flavor that paired beautifully with the orzo. I learned the secret is to let the chicken rest after cooking it, allowing the juices to redistribute for a super moist bite.

Plus, I love that this recipe is completely customizable. You can add seasonal vegetables or even swap the orzo for quinoa or rice based on your preferences. This dish doesn’t just taste amazing, but it also allows for creative tweaks based on what you have on hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavor that awakens the palate
One-pan meal for easy cleanup and maximum flavor
Versatile dish that adapts to your favorite ingredients

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken in the lemon juice and zest mixture is crucial for achieving maximum flavor and tenderness. The acidity in the lemon juice helps break down the proteins in the chicken, making it juicy and soft. Aim for at least 15 minutes of marinating, but if you have more time, even 30 minutes will deepen the flavors significantly. Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the acidity can make the chicken mushy.

For a twist, consider adding minced garlic or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor. This can give your dish a delightful kick while still retaining that bright lemony zest. Remember, the longer you let the chicken soak up those flavors, the more pronounced they will be in the final dish, which really enhances the eating experience.

Perfecting the Orzo

When cooking orzo, it’s essential to keep an eye on the timing, as overcooking it can lead to a mushy texture. Start checking around the 8-minute mark, and don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan. The orzo should be al dente, with a slight bite to it, which creates a pleasant contrast against the tender chicken. If you find yourself with leftovers, this orzo keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it convenient for meal prepping.

To elevate the flavor of the orzo, consider toasting it in the olive oil for a minute or two before adding the broth. This step brings out a nuttier taste and adds a slight golden color, enhancing both visual appeal and flavor complexity. Additionally, adding a splash of fresh lemon juice toward the end of cooking can intensify that zesty profile and brighten the overall dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Skillet Lemon Chicken with Orzo is versatile enough to adapt to your preferences. Feel free to swap out the cherry tomatoes for seasonal vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers; just add them in during the orzo cooking phase. For a heartier dish, you can easily toss in cooked chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for added protein and earthiness. The options are endless in making this dish reflective of your taste.

For serving, a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a rich, savory note that complements the dish’s bright flavors. Pair it with a light salad or crusty bread to round out the meal. If you wish to prepare this ahead of time, the chicken and orzo can be made separately and combined just before serving, ensuring everything stays fresh and flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 teaspoons dried oregano

For the Orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine lemon juice, zest, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.

Cook the Orzo

In the same skillet, add olive oil and the chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then add the orzo. Cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Once the orzo is tender, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cooked chicken. Toss lightly to combine and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding freshly chopped herbs or spinach to the orzo before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider marinating the chicken the night before. This not only infuses flavor but also saves you precious minutes on busy weeknights. Simply store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.

The cooked orzo can also be prepared in advance. Once it cools down, store it in a Python container for easy reheating. When you’re ready to serve, you can quickly combine it with the chicken and tomatoes on the stovetop, adding a splash more of chicken broth if it has dried out. This way, you can have a wholesome meal ready in about 10 minutes!

Storage and Freezing

Leftovers from Skillet Lemon Chicken with Orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. If you need to store it longer, this dish freezes well. Be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container, and enjoy it within two months for the best flavor.

When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for optimal results. Reheat on the stove with a bit of broth until warmed through. Adding a fresh sprinkle of parsley and a touch of lemon right before serving can help rejuvenate the dish, keeping the flavors vibrant and fresh.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for substitutions, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be a wonderful alternative to breasts, offering a richer flavor and slightly more tenderness. For a lighter version, you can replace the orzo with cauliflower rice or quinoa, providing a low-carb option without sacrificing the satisfying texture of the dish.

For a dairy-free version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use nutritional yeast for a similar flavor profile. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or basil, instead of oregano to switch up the flavor profile, making this dish customizable to your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape like couscous or ditalini.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Adding veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can enhance the flavors and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.