Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and are very forgiving. Just make sure they cook through before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Let it cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days . The orzo will absorb more liquid as it sits.

How do I reheat Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo without drying it out?

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water. Stir halfway through so it warms evenly.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes. Add it straight from frozen, but expect it to be a bit softer than fresh. You may also need an extra minute or two of cook time.

Is Parmesan really optional?

Technically, yes. Emotionally? I have feelings about this. Parmesan adds a savory, cozy finish that balances the lemon beautifully.

1 Irresistible Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Description

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a cozy one-pan dinner with juicy seared chicken, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo finished with fresh lemon and lots of black pepper. Bright, comforting, and weeknight-friendly!

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 3–4 pieces)
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 ½ tsp salt, divided (or to taste)
1 ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp juice + 1 tsp zest)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, but delicious)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and lots of cracked black pepper. Set aside.
Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add chicken in a single layer and cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for about 3 minutes. Remove to a plate.
Sauté the garlic: Lower heat slightly. Add chopped garlic to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown). Add a splash more oil if the pan looks dry.
Toast the orzo: Add orzo to the skillet and stir to coat in the pan juices. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden.
Simmer with broth + broccoli: Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Add broccoli florets on top (don’t stir yet). Bring to a gentle simmer.
Return chicken + cover: Nestle chicken back into the skillet. Cover and cook 9–10 minutes, until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Finish with lemon: Uncover. Squeeze lemon juice over everything and sprinkle in lemon zest. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Stir gently. Add Parmesan if you like, then rest 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and are very forgiving.

If the orzo looks a little thick at the end, add a small splash of broth and stir.

For picky eaters, chop broccoli smaller so it blends right in.

Parmesan is optional… but it makes the whole skillet taste extra cozy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pan / Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 470 Kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Fat: 17 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 42 g
Cholesterol: 115 mg