Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings together juicy, flavorful chicken with a bright, zesty pasta. The blend of garlic, herbs, and lemon creates a refreshing yet comforting meal that feels gourmet but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Perfect for those who love a Mediterranean twist on classic chicken and pasta.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastsolive oilgarlic (minced)fresh thymefresh rosemaryfresh parsleylemon juicelemon zestorzo pasta (uncooked)chicken brothbutterParmesan cheesesalt and black pepper

directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toast the orzo for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook the orzo for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Stir in butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until creamy.

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the orzo over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Serve warm with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for a juicier option.

Add baby spinach or cherry tomatoes to the orzo for extra color and nutrition.

Use a blend of Italian herbs if fresh herbs aren’t available.

Top with crumbled feta instead of Parmesan for a tangy flavor twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the orzo.Or reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep both the chicken and orzo separately and combine when ready to serve.

What is orzo?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the amount by about half since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free orzo. Regular orzo contains wheat.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it at the end to warm through with the orzo.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it in portions. Reheat with added broth for moisture.

Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.

What other cheese can I use?

Grated Pecorino Romano or crumbled goat cheese can be good alternatives.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.

What pairs well with this dish?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make great sides.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo is a fresh, flavorful meal that combines simple ingredients into a dish that feels special. It’s an easy way to bring brightness and comfort to your dinner table, perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed gatherings.