Herb-Infused Chicken Orzo
Introduction
Herb-Infused Chicken Orzo is a bright and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and small pasta for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal with family. This dish showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something delicious and uplifting.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Herb-Infused Chicken Orzo is a great choice for several reasons. It is quick to prepare, typically taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. The dish is packed with flavor thanks to the fresh herbs and lemon, adding a delightful brightness to your meal. It’s also versatile; you can enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, meaning less clean-up for you!
How to Make Herb-Infused Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1⁄2 cups chicken broth
- 1⁄2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1⁄2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1⁄4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1⁄2 lemon
- 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1⁄4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Directions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chicken and sauté until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, melt butter.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 2–3 minutes.
- Add chicken broth, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed (10–12 minutes).
- Stir in lemon zest, juice, Parmesan, and cooked chicken.
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
How to Serve Herb-Infused Chicken Orzo
Serve Herb-Infused Chicken Orzo warm on a plate or in a bowl. You can garnish it with extra parsley for color and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for creaminess. It pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables.
How to Store Herb-Infused Chicken Orzo
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore some moisture.
Tips to Make Herb-Infused Chicken Orzo
- Make sure to season your chicken well for the best flavor.
- Stir the orzo regularly as it cooks to prevent sticking.
- You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- For a richer taste, use homemade chicken broth if available.
Variation
You can switch out the chicken for shrimp or add cooked vegetables for a vegetarian version. Different herbs, like basil or cilantro, can also add new flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes if you don’t have orzo. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
2. Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.
3. Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can use whole-wheat orzo for more fiber and replace some of the butter with olive oil for healthier fats.
