Description
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore this One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo recipe. It’s a delightful meal that not only satisfies the taste buds but also simplifies cleanup. Imagine juicy chicken thighs infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, all nestled with tender orzo pasta. This dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights or when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken skin-side down for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes.
- Boneless chicken thighs can be used for a quicker cooking time.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg