Description
Bright, fresh, and incredibly comforting, this Lemon Chicken Orzo with Veggies is an easy one-pan meal bursting with zesty lemon flavor! Tender chicken, fluffy orzo, colorful vegetables, and fragrant herbs simmer together in a light, savory broth for a satisfying dinner that feels both wholesome and delicious. It’s a simple high-protein, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and broccoli for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the zucchini and garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in the dry orzo and toast it for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the lemon zest. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cooked chicken.
- Add the fresh lemon juice and Parmesan. Stir gently and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.
Can This Recipe Support Weight Loss Goals?
This dish can fit nicely into a balanced, portion-conscious meal plan. Chicken provides lean protein, while broccoli, zucchini, and tomatoes add vegetables. Orzo provides carbohydrates for a satisfying meal, and using a measured amount of olive oil and Parmesan keeps the richer ingredients controlled.
Does This Recipe Fit a High-Protein Lifestyle?
Yes. Chicken breast makes this meal naturally protein-rich, while the vegetables add fiber and nutrients. For an even higher-protein version, increase the chicken slightly or use a higher-protein pasta or orzo alternative.
Why You’ll Love It
- 🍋 Fresh and zesty lemon flavor
- 🍗 Tender, protein-rich chicken
- 🥦 Loaded with colorful vegetables
- 🍝 Creamy-tender orzo without heavy cream
- 🍳 Easy one-pan preparation
- 💪 Great for a high-protein lifestyle
- 🥡 Delicious for meal prep and leftovers
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 5
Tip: Add the lemon juice toward the end of cooking. This keeps the flavor bright and prevents the lemon from becoming too bitter during the longer cooking process.
