Description
Sizzling garlic herb chicken nestles perfectly atop zesty lemon orzo, creating Mediterranean magic on your plate. Herbal notes and citrus brightness promise a simple yet sophisticated dinner that delights your senses and transports palates to sunny coastal kitchens.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon (3 g) salt
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25 g) black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of ½ lemon
Orzo Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup (200 g) orzo pasta
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Garnish and Optional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Infuse the chicken with a vibrant blend of aromatic herbs and zesty lemon. Massage the chicken breasts with a fragrant mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, crumbled oregano, delicate thyme, a pinch of salt, freshly ground pepper, and bright lemon zest. Allow the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat for 10-15 minutes while preparing the accompanying orzo.
- Ignite a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the marinated chicken breasts into the hot pan, cooking each side for 5-6 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms and the interior reaches perfect doneness. Enhance the flavor profile by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken. Gently transfer the cooked chicken to a waiting plate.
- Utilize the same skillet to create a flavorful orzo base. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil and introduce minced garlic, sautéing until its aroma fills the kitchen. Introduce the orzo, toasting the grains for 2 minutes while stirring continuously to prevent burning. Pour in rich chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Allow the orzo to cook uncovered, stirring periodically to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Continue cooking for 8-10 minutes until the orzo becomes tender and the liquid reduces to a creamy consistency. Incorporate fresh lemon juice, additional lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to elevate the taste.
- Present the dish by elegantly slicing the chicken and arranging it atop the lemony orzo. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and offer additional lemon wedges for those desiring an extra citrusy punch. The result is a harmonious blend of herb-infused chicken and bright, creamy orzo.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion, allowing herbs and spices to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
- Ensure chicken is at room temperature before cooking to promote even heat distribution and prevent dry, tough meat.
- Toast orzo carefully to enhance its nutty flavor, watching closely to avoid burning and stirring constantly for uniform golden color.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for brighter, more vibrant taste profiles that elevate the entire dish’s aromatic quality.
- Consider substituting orzo with quinoa or cauliflower rice for gluten-free or low-carb dietary needs without compromising overall recipe structure.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve perfect golden-brown exterior and prevent steaming instead of searing.
- Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts of similar size and thickness to guarantee consistent cooking and prevent uneven doneness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg