Name: Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 teaspoon oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; ¼ cup chicken broth or low-sodium broth; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Introduction

This Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a bright and flavorful meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and tender orzo pasta. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fresh and satisfying.

A close-up view of a dish on a white plate filled with golden brown grilled chicken pieces mixed with orzo pasta that is light yellow and slightly glossy. Bright green broccoli florets and pieces of red and yellow bell peppers are scattered throughout, adding vibrant color. Small green herbs are sprinkled on top, enhancing the freshness. The food looks well cooked with a slight shine from sauce or oil, all placed on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Cook orzo by bringing 4 cups of salted water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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 the chicken to the skillet and sauté until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
Step 4: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained orzo, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
Step 6: Transfer to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if using, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
Swap the mixed vegetables with your favorites or what’s in season, like zucchini or snap peas.
Use whole wheat orzo for a healthier twist and a nuttier flavor.
Leftovers reheat well, making this a great meal prep option.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white plate filled with a colorful dish made of grilled chicken chunks, golden orzo pasta, and mixed vegetables including bright green broccoli florets, red and yellow bell pepper pieces, and chopped green herbs sprinkled on top. The chicken pieces are browned with a shiny glaze, and the orzo pasta has a light golden color, scattered throughout the dish in an even layer. The vegetables add vibrant splashes of color, contrasting the beige pasta and light brown chicken. The plate sits against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous, quinoa, or even small shells can work well, but cooking times may vary.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so this recipe is not gluten-free. To make it gluten-free, substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or quinoa.