Description

A flavorful and light meal featuring tender garlic herb chicken paired with zesty lemon orzo. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is packed with fresh flavors from garlic, herbs, and lemon.

Ingredients

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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier orzo)

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Instructions

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Add lemon juice and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
While the broth is simmering, cook the orzo according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the garlic lemon sauce, along with butter and heavy cream (if using). Stir until well combined and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper, to taste.
Slice the chicken breasts and serve them over the lemon orzo. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh and flavorful meal!

Notes

For a lighter version, you can skip the heavy cream and use a little extra chicken broth for a more broth-based orzo.
You can swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add more lemon zest and juice to the orzo.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to prevent the orzo from drying out.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with orzo
Calories: 420
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 95mg