Description
A bright and flavorful Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry that combines tender chicken breast, nutrient-packed mixed vegetables, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all tossed in a lemony garlic sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish offers a quick and healthy meal full of fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
Grains & Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Vegetables
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup chicken broth
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook the chicken until no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Combine and heat through: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained orzo, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the stir fry and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Serve: Transfer the lemon chicken and veggie orzo stir fry to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breast with thigh meat for juicier results.
- Feel free to use any mixed vegetables you prefer or have on hand.
- Adding fresh parsley or basil as a garnish brightens the dish and adds fresh herbal notes.
- For a vegetarian alternative, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make sure not to overcook the orzo to keep it al dente and slightly chewy.
