Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry
A vibrant and flavorful dish featuring succulent chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy orzo pasta with a zesty lemon kick.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 410kcal
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 1 lb diced chicken breast Juicy and tender, the star protein of this dish.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Infuses an aromatic, savory flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt Enhances all the delicious flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper Adds a mild heat to balance the dish.
For the vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper chopped Adds color and crunch.
- 1 cup broccoli florets Tender and vibrant complement to the dish.
- 1 zucchini chopped Adds a lovely soft texture and fresh taste.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Used for sautéing.
For the orzo
- 1 cup orzo This tiny pasta is creamy and comforting.
For the seasoning
- 1 tsp lemon zest Adds a bright, citrusy fragrance.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice A fresh zesty explosion that ties everything together.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano Offers an earthy herbal note.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Optional, adds heat.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan Provides a creamy, salty finish.
- Fresh parsley chopped Used for garnishing.
Instructions
Cooking the Orzo
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until tender, typically around 7-9 minutes. Once done, drain the orzo and set it aside.
Preparing the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped zucchini, red bell pepper, and broccoli florets.
- Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp.
Bringing It All Together
- Return the cooked chicken and the drained orzo to the skillet. Pour in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and the dried oregano.
- If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Final Touches
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
For added depth, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and a bit of oregano for an hour before cooking. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on your preference.