Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe

Introduction

This Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty lemon with tender orzo pasta. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for a busy weeknight or a simple dinner that feels special.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup chicken broth or low-sodium broth
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add to the skillet and sauté until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Add minced garlic and mixed vegetables, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
4. Step 4: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained orzo, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
5. Step 5: Taste the stir fry and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
6. Step 6: Transfer to a serving dish or bowl and optionally garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute orzo with couscous or small pasta shapes if preferred.
• Use any favorite vegetables such as zucchini or snap peas for variety.
• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Chicken thighs can be used instead of breast for extra juiciness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, frozen mixed vegetables work well and can be added directly to the skillet. Just cook a little longer until heated through and tender.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Omit the chicken and increase the vegetables or add plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas for a meat-free option.

Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 156 reviews

Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a vibrant and wholesome dish combining tender sautéed chicken, colorful mixed vegetables, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta all infused with fresh lemon zest and juice. This quick and easy stir fry offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon oregano

Pasta

• 1 cup orzo pasta

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Others

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• ¼ cup chicken broth or low-sodium broth
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, approximately 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the orzo and set it aside to keep warm.
2. Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breast with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender yet retain a vibrant color and slight crunch.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the drained orzo, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stir fry and adjust the seasoning by adding extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as preferred to enhance the brightness and balance of flavors.
6. Serve: Transfer the lemon chicken and veggie orzo stir fry to serving plates or bowls. Garnish optionally with fresh parsley for an added pop of color and fresh herbal note. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

• You can use any combination of your favorite vegetables for the stir fry such as zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level better.
• To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta variety or quinoa.
• For a more citrusy flavor, add additional lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice before serving.
• Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Lemon Chicken, Orzo Stir Fry, Easy Dinner, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Mediterranean Chicken, Vegetable Stir Fry