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Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry

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This Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a bright and satisfying one-pan meal made with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta tossed in fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. It’s a quick and wholesome dinner perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 small zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 3 cups water or chicken broth for cooking the orzo

Instructions

  1. Bring a medium pot of salted water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  5. Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Add the zucchini, broccoli, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper.
  6. Stir fry the vegetables for 5 to 6 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
  7. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
  9. Add the cooked orzo, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until evenly combined and heated through.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  11. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breast for extra juiciness.
  • Frozen vegetables may be substituted if fresh vegetables are unavailable.
  • Add spinach or kale during the last few minutes for extra greens.
  • For extra heat, stir in crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Parmesan cheese adds richness but can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
  • Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth or water.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/how-to-make-lemon-chicken-veggie-orzo-stir-fry/