Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stir fry and add extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired to brighten the flavor and balance the seasoning.
- 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
