Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 72 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Description

This Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender diced chicken breast is sautéed with fresh vegetables and combined with al dente orzo pasta, all brightened with zesty lemon and fresh parsley. Optional Parmesan adds a lovely savory finish, making this dish a delicious and balanced main course.

Ingredients

Protein

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

Pasta

  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

Vegetables

  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • ¼ cup chicken broth (or water)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Herbs & Cheese

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Prepare the orzo pasta according to package directions until it reaches al dente texture. Drain the orzo well and set it aside while you cook the other ingredients.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Sauté the vegetables for 4 to 5 minutes until they become tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until it is fragrant.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked orzo pasta along with the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine and allow it to heat through evenly for about 2 minutes.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if using. Serve the dish warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Feel free to swap the vegetables with alternatives like asparagus, peas, or spinach depending on what you have on hand.
  • For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add a splash of fresh lemon juice right before serving.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/lemon-chicken-veggie-orzo-stir-fry-recipe/