Picture yourself gathered around the table with loved ones, the aroma of fresh herbs and zesty lemon filling the air – that’s the magic of our Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo Recipe. This dish captures the essence of family meals, combining tender chicken with the delightful texture of orzo, all baked to perfection in a bright, flavorful casserole. Perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is designed to bring everyone together, enjoy good food, and make wonderful memories. Let’s embark on this culinary journey and create something truly special for your family!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly.
- In a large ovenproof dish, spread the orzo pasta evenly. Pour the chicken broth over the orzo.
- Place the marinated chicken breasts on top of the orzo, pouring any remaining marinade over the dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
- Once cooked, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and a few lemon slices if desired.
Helpful Tips
For a quicker version, you can use pre-cooked chicken or even substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken added towards the end of the baking time. Vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes can add a fresh twist and extra nutrients to the dish. Adjust the amount of lemon to suit your taste preference, and if you’re a garlic lover, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove!
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The orzo may soak up more liquid as it sits, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth while reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have orzo on hand, feel free to substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous. Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried ones – just remember that fresh herbs are less concentrated, so you may need to use three times the amount of dried herbs listed.
Pairings
This Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo pairs beautifully with a light green salad and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a platter of roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. At Zynahz, we believe in the power of good food to create cherished memories and bring people together. We hope our Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo Recipe adds a touch of joy and creativity to your kitchen adventures. Try it out, share your results with us, and spread the love by cooking this delightful dish for your friends and family. Don’t forget to explore more of our recipes, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter to stay inspired and informed. Let’s make every meal a celebration!
