Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a bright and flavorful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty lemon with hearty orzo pasta. It’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners. This recipe is easy to follow and packed with vibrant colors and tastes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup chicken broth or low-sodium broth
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add to the skillet and sauté until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables. Cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
4. Step 4: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the drained orzo, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice as preferred.
6. Step 6: Transfer to a serving dish or bowl and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to suit your protein preference.
• Use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or snap peas.
• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan before serving.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt just before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the dish moist. This stir fry is best enjoyed fresh but keeps well for quick meals.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with cooked brown rice or quinoa. Adjust cooking times accordingly and ensure grains are fully cooked before combining with the other ingredients.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, choose a gluten-free pasta alternative like rice or chickpea pasta. Also, ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 474 reviews

This Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a vibrant and healthy one-pan meal combining tender chicken breast, colorful mixed vegetables, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. Infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, garlic, and oregano, this dish delivers bright, savory flavors balanced with a hint of citrus. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a nutritious and satisfying option that’s both flavorful and colorful.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein & Pasta

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta

Vegetables & Flavorings

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Liquids & Oils

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup chicken broth or low-sodium broth

Instructions

1. Cook Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking.
2. Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken evenly with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked and golden on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the mixed vegetables. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp and vibrant in color.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the drained orzo, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the broth to slightly reduce.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stir fry and add extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired to brighten the flavor and balance the seasoning.
6. Serve: Transfer the stir fry to a serving dish or bowl. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels in the dish.
• Substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes if preferred.
• Ensure vegetables are not overcooked to maintain texture and nutrients.
• For extra protein, add chickpeas or white beans.
• You can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead and combine them quickly when ready to serve.

Keywords: lemon chicken, orzo stir fry, healthy dinner, quick chicken recipe, Mediterranean chicken, one-pan meal, chicken and vegetables