One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

A Simple and Flavorful One-Pan Wonder!

If you’re searching for a dish that’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare, then look no further than One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo! Juicy chicken thighs marinated in lemon and garlic come together beautifully with tender orzo, all cooked in one pan. This means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying family meals at the table. A fun tidbit: did you know that lemons are known for their bright, uplifting scent, which can actually boost your mood? Now, that’s what we call a win-win!

This meal is reminiscent of other cozy one-pot wonders, like our beloved One-Pot Pasta Primavera, which also emphasizes simplicity and delightful flavors. So, if you’re in the mood to explore more fantastic recipes that promise comfort and easy cleanup, be sure to check those out too. Let’s dive into this lemony delight and discover why it deserves a spot on your dinner table tonight!

What is One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo?

The name One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo might sound like a mouthful, but once you pronounce it a few times, you’ll be eager to cook it! Why all the fuss about a name? Well, this dish is about convenience—after all, who doesn’t love a meal that requires little effort but delivers maximum flavor? It’s like having a culinary superhero in your kitchen, swooping in to save dinner without any complicated preparation. It’s true what they say: “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish will make you the culinary champion of the household. So why not give it a try and see how many hearts you can win over?

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

This recipe is incredibly special for a variety of reasons. First off, the star of the dish, the chicken thighs, are wonderfully moist and flavorful thanks to the zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. The orzo absorbs all the delicious juices as it cooks, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, think about the cost-saving benefits! Why spend extra on takeout when you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen for a fraction of the price?

And let’s not forget those delightful toppings—fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese add layers of flavor that take this dish to the next level. It’s similar to our One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken, but this recipe leans more towards bright, citrusy goodness. So roll up your sleeves and get ready for a culinary adventure that will have your taste buds dancing with joy!

How to Make One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

Quick Overview

The beauty of One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo lies in its simplicity! In about 30 to 40 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that features tender chicken and perfectly cooked orzo, all enveloped in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. Plus, it’s beginner-friendly and allows for some flexibility—feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have in your pantry!

Key Ingredients for One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

Here’s what you’ll need to create this dish:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium lemon (juice and zest)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. This step ensures that your chicken is flavorful right from the get-go!
2. Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear them for about 6-7 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Flip them over and allow them to cook on the other side for another 5 minutes.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet along with the chicken broth. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the Chicken Back In: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the orzo. Squeeze the lemon juice over everything, sprinkle lemon zest on top, and cover the skillet with a lid.
6. Let it Cook: Allow the chicken and orzo to cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the orzo is tender.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once everything is cooked, sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve warm.

What to Serve One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo With

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful, vibrant meal. You might even enjoy a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a lemon wedge to complement those citrusy flavors. For those who enjoy bread, a crusty loaf can be perfect for soaking up any leftover juices on your plate.

Top Tips for Perfecting One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

For the best results, consider these handy tips:

• Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can swap it for quinoa or even rice. Just adjust the broth quantity accordingly based on the cooking times!
• Fresh Herbs: Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs! Rosemary or thyme would add a fantastic twist to the flavors.
• Common Mistakes: Ensure your chicken thighs are properly seared for that crispy skin texture, and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can result in steaming instead of browning.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When reheating, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or pop in the microwave for a few minutes, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the orzo moist.

With all these pointers and this easy-to-follow recipe, you’re on your way to making a delightful and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Give One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo a whirl tonight; you might just find your new favorite weeknight dish!

One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

A quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in lemon and garlic paired with tender orzo for a comforting dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 pieces chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on Juicy and flavorful.
• 1 cup orzo pasta Can be substituted with quinoa or rice.
• 2 cups chicken broth Adjust quantity based on the substitute used.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for browning the chicken.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor.
• 1 medium lemon (juice and zest) For a bright and zesty flavor.
• to taste fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Adds freshness and color.
• to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.

Cooking

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add minced garlic to the same pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the orzo and chicken broth to the skillet, stir to combine, and bring to a simmer.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the orzo. Squeeze lemon juice over everything and sprinkle lemon zest on top, then cover with a lid.
5. Cook for about 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F) and orzo is tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding chicken broth to keep the orzo moist. Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.