Tender chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh herbs simmered in a bright lemon sauce. A comforting one-pan Mediterranean meal.
# Ingredient List:
→ Proteins
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 1.1 lbs), cut into bite-sized pieces
→ Pasta & Grains
02 - 1 cup orzo pasta
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 cup frozen green peas
04 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
→ Liquids
07 - 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
→ Herbs & Seasonings
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried dill
10 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - 0.5 teaspoon salt, or to taste
12 - 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
→ Fats
13 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
# How-To Steps:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until lightly golden. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
02 - In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Stir in orzo pasta, coating it thoroughly in the oil and aromatics for 1 to 2 minutes.
04 - Pour in chicken broth and add dried oregano, lemon zest, and half of the fresh parsley and dill. Bring to a simmer.
05 - Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
06 - Add frozen peas and lemon juice. Continue cooking uncovered for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until orzo reaches al dente texture and most liquid is absorbed.
07 - Remove from heat and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with remaining fresh herbs and serve warm.
