One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

If you’re looking for a delicious, wholesome dinner that comes together effortlessly and bursts with bright, fresh flavors, One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo is your new go-to meal. This dish combines juicy, tender chicken thighs seared to golden perfection with a fragrant medley of lemon and garlic, all simmered alongside tender orzo pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and impressive enough to share with friends or family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Everything cooks in one pan, so prep and cleanup are a breeze.
• Flavor-Packed: The lemon and garlic create a zingy, aromatic sauce that infuses every bite.
• Comforting and Nourishing: Orzo soaks up all the delicious juices, making every forkful satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the tender chicken and mild, buttery orzo.
• Versatile: Customize it easily with herbs, veggies, or different seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, essential ingredients that come together to deliver vibrant tastes and creamy textures. Each component plays an important role—from the rich chicken thighs to the bright lemon juice, savory garlic, and delicate orzo pasta.

• Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide rich flavor and crispy skin when seared correctly.
• Orzo Pasta: Small and quick-cooking, it absorbs the lemon garlic sauce beautifully.
• Fresh Lemon: Adds refreshing acidity and brightness that balances the savory elements.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic offers aromatic depth without overpowering the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Used to cook the orzo, infusing it with savory goodness.
• Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and building the base flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley or thyme brighten the finished dish and add a touch of green.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the pasta perfectly.

Variations for One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

This recipe is wonderfully flexible and encourages you to make it your own! Whether you want a veggie boost, a twist on flavor, or need to adjust for dietary preferences, these variations are easy to try.

• Vegetable Boost: Add baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: Toss in crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for some heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap orzo for rice or gluten-free pasta to fit dietary needs.
• Dairy Addition: Stir in a little grated Parmesan or a pat of butter at the end for a creamy finish.
• Herb Swap: Use basil, dill, or rosemary instead of parsley or thyme for different herbal notes.

How to Make One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This helps ensure crispy, golden skin when cooked.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside temporarily.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Add Orzo

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Then stir in the dry orzo, letting it toast slightly for extra nuttiness.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice and Broth

Pour in fresh lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any browned bits for flavor. Stir to combine everything well.

Step 5: Simmer with Chicken

Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Cover the pan, reduce heat to low, and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Once cooked, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the dish to add freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve straight from the pan for a delightful meal.

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

• Dry Chicken Skin: Patting chicken dry ensures crispier skin.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the chicken thighs in batches if needed to maintain heat.
• Toast the Orzo: Lightly cooking orzo before simmering enhances its flavor.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh juice provides a brighter flavor compared to bottled.
• Cover While Simmering: Helps the orzo cook evenly and absorb all the tasty liquids.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes off heat to allow flavors to meld.

How to Serve One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma that complements the lemon garlic flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal that balances freshness and heartiness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly in your skillet or transfer to a warmed platter, garnishing with lemon slices and a drizzle of good olive oil to wow guests with simplicity and style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo creamy and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but bone-in thighs typically yield juicier, more flavorful results with crispier skin.

Is orzo pasta the only pasta I can use?

Orzo works best due to its small size and quick cooking time, but you can substitute with small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even rice for gluten-free options.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear when pierced. Cooking with a kitchen thermometer helps ensure perfect doneness.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Adding chopped veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers boosts nutrition and color without complicating the recipe.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

Fresh lemon juice is best for brightness, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch; just use a little less to avoid overpowering the dish.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo is the cozy, flavorful dinner you didn’t know you needed until now. With just a handful of ingredients, minimal cleanup, and less than 30 minutes, you can enjoy a meal full of vibrant tastes and tender textures. Give it a try tonight—you might just find your new favorite weeknight winner!

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