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One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

A vibrant and easy one-pan meal featuring tender, juicy bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seared to crispy perfection, cooked together with creamy orzo pasta infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs. This flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering restaurant-quality taste with minimal prep and cleanup.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Pasta and Flavorings

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 lemon, zested and freshly squeezed juice

Finishing Touches

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Chicken Thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides, and set them aside while prepping other ingredients.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and cook without moving for about 6 to 8 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and sear the other side for 3 to 4 minutes, then remove the thighs and set them aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Add Orzo: Lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the orzo pasta, stirring to toast it lightly and coat with the garlicky oil for about 1 to 2 minutes.
  4. Add Broth and Lemon: Pour in the chicken broth along with freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Simmer Chicken with Orzo: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them skin-side up into the orzo. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and orzo is tender.
  6. Final Touches: Remove the lid and let any excess liquid cook off if needed for 2 to 3 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve hot right from the pan.

Notes

  • Pat Chicken Dry: Drying chicken skin before searing ensures a crispy, golden crust.
  • Don’t Rush Searing: Allow chicken thighs to cook undisturbed to develop maximum color and flavor.
  • Toast the Orzo: Toasting enhances nuttiness and prevents mushiness of the pasta.
  • Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest make a bright, noticeable difference in flavor.
  • Cover While Simmering: Keeping the pan covered helps orzo cook evenly and retain moisture.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Searing and Simmering in one pan
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: one pan, lemon garlic chicken, chicken thighs, orzo pasta, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, gluten free option, Mediterranean