Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe recipe photo - Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe by Jan

Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe

Published: June 29, 2025 Prep Time: About 15 minutes Cook Time: About 25 minutes Total Time: About 40 minutes Serves: 6 Difficulty: Easy Category: Main Course Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season chicken cubes with salt and black pepper
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
  3. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes
  4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside
  5. Add remaining olive oil to the same skillet
  6. Sauté onion and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened
  7. Add red bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes
  8. Stir in orzo and cook for 1 minute until lightly toasted
  9. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil
  10. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender
  11. Return chicken to the skillet along with peas
  12. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, and parsley
  13. Add Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper
  14. Serve immediately while hot

Special Notes

This one-pot lemon chicken orzo is perfect for busy weeknights. The bright lemon flavor pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and creamy orzo. The dish comes together quickly and requires minimal cleanup. For extra richness, you can add a splash of heavy cream at the end. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.