This recipe is designed for simplicity and maximum flavor. Follow these easy steps to create a perfect One-Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo that will impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you begin cooking, it’s always helpful to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

• Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly within the orzo. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – this is your first layer of flavor!
• Vegetables: Chop the yellow onion into small dice. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Zest one lemon using a microplane or fine grater, being careful to only zest the yellow part and avoid the bitter white pith. Juice both lemons – you should get about ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice. Chop the fresh parsley.
• Measure Spices and Orzo: Measure out the dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Have the uncooked orzo pasta and chicken broth ready to go. Grate the Parmesan cheese.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken

Now, let’s build the flavor base of our dish in the pot.

• Heat Olive Oil: Place a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up until it shimmers. This indicates it’s hot enough to start sautéing.
• Sauté Onion: Add the chopped onion to the hot olive oil and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes softened and translucent. Sautéing the onion first releases its sweetness and creates a flavorful foundation.
• Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet with the onions. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Cooking the spices in the oil releases their aromas and enhances their flavor.
• Brown the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be cooked through at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the orzo. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor and a nice texture.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Broth

Now it’s time to bring everything together and cook the orzo in the flavorful broth.

• Add Orzo and Lemon Zest: Add the uncooked orzo pasta and lemon zest to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Stir to combine everything and toast the orzo for about a minute. Toasting the orzo briefly helps to enhance its nutty flavor.
• Pour in Chicken Broth and Lemon Juice: Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Stir well to ensure the orzo is evenly distributed in the liquid and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet – these bits are packed with flavor!
• Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer gently.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook Orzo

This is the crucial step where the orzo absorbs the flavorful broth and becomes perfectly cooked.

• Simmer Time: Let the orzo simmer, covered, for about 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on your stove and the type of orzo.
• Check for Doneness: After 15 minutes, check the orzo for doneness. It should be tender but still slightly al dente. If there is still too much liquid, continue to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is cooked through.
• Ensure Chicken is Cooked Through: At this point, the chicken should be cooked through as well. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley

The final touches add creaminess, freshness, and a beautiful finish to the dish.

• Stir in Parmesan Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is melted and the orzo becomes creamy. The Parmesan adds a wonderful richness and savory flavor.
• Stir in Parsley: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. The parsley adds a burst of freshness and vibrant green color, complementing the lemon and herbs.
• Lemon Slices for Garnish: Garnish with slices of fresh lemon for an extra touch of lemon aroma and visual appeal.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

One-Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo is best served immediately while it’s warm and creamy. Enjoy the bright, flavorful, and comforting dish you’ve just created!