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Juicy Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550
Enjoy tender chicken thighs cooked with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, served over flavorful orzo pasta for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Pasta

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Broth & Liquids

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 lemon lemon, juiced
  • 1 lemon lemon, zested
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions 

  • Coat chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet, sear chicken skin-side down for 5 minutes, then flip and cook 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  • Melt butter, sauté garlic, toast orzo, then add broth, lemon juice, zest, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
  • Reintroduce chicken, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until orzo is tender and chicken reaches 165°F.
  • Stir in Parmesan, garnish with parsley, and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon before serving.
Calories: 550kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chicken, lemon, orzo