Prepare a quick and bright meal featuring pan-seared chicken and orzo pasta tossed with fresh lemon and herbs.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:30 min
Yield:3 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Stir Fry
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup dry orzo pasta
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
Instructions
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Add the dry orzo to the same skillet. Toast the orzo for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid and is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the parsley, dill, and peas (if using).
Stir everything together until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve immediately.
Notes
You can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like ditalini if you prefer.
For extra flavor, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Add a handful of baby spinach during the last minute of cooking for added greens.