Irresistible One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

You can practically smell the garlic wafting through the air, mingling with the zesty lemon as it dances around your kitchen. One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo is not just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth and comfort. Imagine tender chicken thighs, perfectly seasoned, nestled among fluffy orzo, all swimming in a fragrant sauce that’ll make even your neighbor’s dog stop barking to come take a whiff.

This dish has always held a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made it during a chaotic week filled with work deadlines. It was like finding an oasis in the middle of a desert—quick, simple, and oh-so-satisfying! Perfect for those nights when you want to impress guests without spending half your life in the kitchen. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience!

Ingredients for One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-in Chicken Thighs: Opt for skin-on thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness; boneless will work too if you prefer.
• Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and absorbs all those tasty flavors from the dish.
• Fresh Garlic: Grab some firm cloves; fresh garlic packs a punch compared to pre-minced varieties.
• Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for that bright acidity that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth gives the dish depth without overwhelming saltiness.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds healthy fats while keeping everything moist during cooking.

For seasoning:

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all those delicious flavors; season generously!
• Dried Oregano: This herb complements both chicken and lemon beautifully; fresh would work too if you’ve got it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s like giving your chicken a warm-up before its grand performance.

Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Season both sides of your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and oregano. Once the oil shimmers like your best friend on a sunny day, add the chicken skin-side down. Sear until golden brown—about five minutes per side—then remove them from the pan.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Aromatics

In the same pan, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—just about one minute should do! Be careful not to burn it; we want fragrance, not acrid regrets.

Step 4: Introduce Orzo

Pour in orzo pasta along with lemon juice and chicken broth into the pan. Stir well so that everything gets cozy together. This is where magic happens—trust me!

Step 5: Nestle Back Your Chicken

Return the seared chicken thighs back into the pan on top of the orzo mixture. Now they’re ready for their “steam bath” while they bake in that hot oven.

Step 6: Bake it Up

Transfer everything into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C) and orzo is al dente.

When done, take out your masterpiece and let it rest for five minutes before serving. Transfer everything onto plates and drizzle any remaining sauce over each portion for that perfect finishing touch!

Now you’re ready to enjoy One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo—your taste buds will sing praises reminiscent of an opera house encore!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken thighs first to lock in that juicy goodness, then let them rest while you cook the orzo in the same pan. This method ensures maximum flavor infusion and saves time on cleanup.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the orzo for quinoa or rice if you’re feeling adventurous! Toss in some roasted veggies or sprinkle feta cheese on top for an extra flavor kick—get creative based on your pantry treasures.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to revive that saucy goodness.

Sometimes, my family asks for this dish when they want to impress guests; little do they know, it’s my secret weapon! The smiles around the table are worth every minute spent cooking.

FAQs :

What ingredients are needed for One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo?

To prepare One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo, you will need bone-in chicken thighs, orzo pasta, garlic, lemon juice, chicken broth, and fresh herbs like parsley. Additionally, include olive oil, salt, pepper, and any vegetables you love, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes. These ingredients combine to create a flavorful dish that is both easy to make and delightful to eat. Having all the ingredients ready makes the cooking process smoother and ensures that you won’t miss any key flavors. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail Recipe recipe.

How long does it take to cook One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo?

Cooking One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes. This includes browning the chicken thighs on the stovetop before adding orzo and other ingredients to simmer together in one pan. Mexican chicken casserole The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; while the chicken cooks through, the orzo absorbs all the delicious lemon-garlic flavors, creating a harmonious dish in a short amount of time. poppy seed chicken casserole. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole Recipe recipe.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs for One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo. Boneless thighs will cook faster than bone-in ones, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Using boneless thighs will still yield a juicy and flavorful result while making preparation easier and quicker.

What can I serve with One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo?

One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo is a complete meal on its own but pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli would also complement this dish beautifully by adding color and nutrition. For an extra touch of flavor, consider garnishing the dish with additional lemon slices or fresh herbs.

Conclusion for One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo :

In conclusion, One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo is a simple yet delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken thighs, flavorful orzo, and zesty lemon creates an enticing dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. cozy chicken pot pie This recipe not only saves time by using just one pan but also allows for creativity in ingredient selection. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish guarantees comfort food at its best!

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One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

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• Author: Chloe
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken thighs, fluffy orzo pasta, and a bright lemon-garlic sauce—all cooked in one pan for effortless cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe delivers delicious flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

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• 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sear skin-side down until golden brown (about 5 minutes per side). Remove from the pan.
3. Add minced garlic to the same pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in orzo, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Mix well.
5. Nestle seared chicken thighs back into the pan on top of the orzo mixture.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and orzo is al dente.
7. Let rest for five minutes before serving. Drizzle remaining sauce over each serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with orzo (250g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 120mg