One Pan Lemon Orzo Chicken

It was a typical Monday evening, and I found myself staring into the depths of my refrigerator, hoping to conjure up a meal with the limited ingredients I had on hand. As I rummaged through the shelves, I came across a lone chicken breast, a half-used bag of orzo pasta, and a couple of lemons that were on the verge of going bad. With a little creativity and a dash of inspiration, I decided to whip up a one-pan lemon orzo chicken dish that would not only satisfy my hunger but also make the most of what I had available.

Understanding the Topic

One pan lemon orzo chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, tangy lemon, and hearty orzo pasta all cooked together in a single pan. This budget-friendly meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The lemon adds a bright and refreshing flavor to the dish, while the orzo pasta soaks up all the delicious juices from the chicken as it cooks.

Common Pitfalls or Mistakes

One common mistake when making one pan lemon orzo chicken is overcooking the chicken, which can result in dry and tough meat. To avoid this, make sure to cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and then remove it from the pan to rest before slicing. Another pitfall is adding too much liquid to the pan, which can make the orzo pasta mushy. Be sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully and only add as much liquid as directed.

Little-Known Facts or Useful Background

Orzo pasta is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to casseroles and pilafs. Despite its rice-like appearance, orzo is actually a type of pasta, made from wheat flour and shaped like a large grain of rice. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well, making it a perfect choice for one pan meals like lemon orzo chicken.

Kitchen Myths or Misunderstandings

One common myth about cooking chicken is that you should wash it before cooking to remove any bacteria. In reality, washing raw chicken can actually spread harmful bacteria around your kitchen through splashing water. The best way to ensure your chicken is safe to eat is to cook it to the proper internal temperature and handle it carefully to prevent cross-contamination.

Step-by-Step Recipe or Instructions

If you’re ready to try your hand at making one pan lemon orzo chicken, follow the simple recipe below for a delicious and satisfying meal:

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken breast to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
6. Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and the juice and zest of the lemon.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer.
8. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer to a preheated oven.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
10. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Can I make substitutions in the recipe?

Yes, you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast, swap out the orzo for another small pasta shape like couscous or pearl barley, or add in extra vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

If you want to make a vegetarian version of this dish, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add in extra protein sources like chickpeas, tofu, or seitan to make the dish more filling and satisfying.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally dairy-free as written. However, if you want to add a creamy element, you can stir in a dollop of dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream at the end of cooking to add richness and depth of flavor.

Savings Spotlight 💵

• Buy pantry staples like rice and beans in bulk — then store in reused jars
• Repurpose pickle juice to marinate chicken or season potatoes
• Make your own spice blends instead of buying pre-made packets

“You can make any dinner stretch if you’ve got garlic, broth, and a can of beans,” says Rosa N., a former school cafeteria chef turned cookbook author.

“The key to budget-friendly cooking is to get creative with what you have and not be afraid to experiment in the kitchen,” advises J. Smith, a home cook with a passion for frugal meals.

Budget Kitchen Tip 💡

With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can create delicious and satisfying meals like one pan lemon orzo chicken without breaking the bank. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a budget-friendly meal that’s as flavorful as it is easy to make.

Daniella is the creator and author of iliketodabble.com. When their wife Alexandra and them aren’t globetrotting or playing with their 7+ animals, they are dabbling and working towards a future of financial freedom.