Onepot Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a dinner that's both delicious and easy? Like, chuck everything-in-one-pot easy? Honestly, who doesn't! So, if you are looking for one pot dinner ideas , then you're in for a treat.
This One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo is bursting with fresh, zingy flavours.
One-Pot Wonder Awaits
This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish. Think sunny afternoons by the sea! This is an easy 1 pot dinner , ready in under an hour.
It feeds four hungry people!
Why You'll Love This Dish
This dish packs a nutritional punch! Chicken provides lean protein. Lemon and herbs offer vitamins and antioxidants. It's also perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with mates.
What makes it extra special? It’s all cooked in one pot! Less washing up is always a win. This is one of my favourite quick weeknight dinners !
Time to gather your ingredients!
Key Ingredients For the Easy Dinner
Here's what you'll need for this culinary masterpiece: Olive oil, chicken thighs, onion, garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (optional), orzo pasta, chicken broth, dry white wine (optional), lemon juice, fresh dill, feta cheese, salt and pepper to taste.
This one pot recipe is amazing.
I usually have most of this stuff knocking about in my kitchen. Honestly, it’s a lifesaver on those lazy day dinner ideas kinda nights.
A few tips for success
You will need a large pot, big enough to host a proper party. Remember, it is critical, it is at least 6-quart capacity.
That’s your trusty Dutch oven or any similar pot with a lid. It keeps all that lovely flavour locked in!
Ingredients & Equipment for Your One-Pot Masterpiece
Okay, let's talk about what you actually need for this amazing One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo . Honestly, the best easy 1 pot dinners are the ones where you don't need a million fancy bits and bobs, right? This one's all about simplicity.
Main Ingredients for Chicken Orzo Dinner
Here's what you'll need for this one-pot chicken orzo recipe . Don't worry, it's mostly stuff you probably already have knocking about!
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil: This is for sautéing. Use a decent one; it makes a difference.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.25 lbs / 567g) , cut into 1 inch pieces: Chicken thighs are the bomb! They stay juicy. I find mine in the grocery store and cut them myself.
- 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup / 150g) : Yellow or white onion works just fine.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons / 6g) : Fresh garlic is always better.
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano: Don't be shy!
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) dried thyme: Adds a lovely earthy note.
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a little kick.
- 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta: This pasta is perfect for one-pot wonders.
- 3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth: Use a good quality broth, it makes a difference.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine (optional): Like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Trust me; it elevates the dish.
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons / 30 ml) : Freshly squeezed is key!
- 1/2 cup (40g) chopped fresh dill (loosely packed): Dill is my jam!
- 1/4 cup (40g) crumbled feta cheese: Adds a salty, tangy finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Obvs.
Seasoning is Key
This isn't just about throwing stuff in a pot. Those spices? Essential. Oregano and thyme give it that classic Mediterranean flavour.
Don't skip 'em! If you're out of dried oregano, Italian seasoning works in a pinch. You got the spice combinations right is essencial in most of Easy family dinners , you know?
Equipment Needed Keep It Simple!
Honestly, you don't need a cupboard full of gadgets for this. Just the essentials:
- Large Dutch oven or pot with a lid: At least 6-quart capacity.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Can't cook without them.
- Cutting board and knife: Sharp knife makes life easier.
That's it! Now you're ready to tackle one of the easiest pasta dishes and a sure winner on your list of quick weeknight dinners .
It's amazing how a handful of ingredients can turn into something so delicious, right? Let's get cooking!
One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo: Sorted!
Fancy a dish that's both delicious and easy? Then one pot dinner ideas are absolutely your answer! I am going to share with you my take on a super easy, super tasty One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo.
Inspired by Mediterranean flavours, this is a hug in a bowl.
It's so easy, honestly. Less washing up? Sign me up! Think of it as the culinary equivalent of a relaxing brew and a biscuit after a long day.
I am going to make this recipe outline so clear!
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
Essential mise en place: Chop 1 medium onion (about 1 cup), mince 2 cloves garlic , chop 1/2 cup fresh dill .
Cube 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1 inch pieces. Measure out your 1 cup orzo , 3 cups chicken broth , and have 1/2 cup dry white wine ready if you're using it.
Zest and juice 1 lemon . Crumble 1/4 cup feta cheese . Easy peasy!
Time saving organization tips: Get everything prepped before you start cooking. This really helps, trust me. Also, use pre-minced garlic if you're really short on time. No judgement here!
step-by-step to Yummy Town
- Sauté the Basics: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium high heat. Add your chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes . Then, throw in the garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano , 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme , and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick). Cook for 1 minute . The aroma is divine, honestly.
- Brown the Chicken: Add your chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper. Brown them on all sides. Remember, they don't need to be cooked through ! This just adds flavour.
- The Orzo Party: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits these are flavour bombs! Then, add the orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15- 20 minutes . Orzo should be cooked through, and chicken cooked through.
- Lemon Zest: Stir in lemon juice and fresh dill.
- Serve and Enjoy: Sprinkle with feta cheese. Serve straight away.
Pro Tips for the Win!
- Don't overcook the orzo: Start checking it around 15 minutes . It should be al dente , not mushy. Nobody wants mushy orzo!
- Liquid Levels: If the orzo is slurping up all the broth, add a splash more.
- The Magic of Dill: Honestly, fresh dill makes such a difference. Don't skip it, even if you think you don't like dill. Easy 1 Pot Dinners can elevate with fresh herbs. It is true.
This one-pot chicken orzo recipe is amazing because it's proper simple. It's a lazy day dinner ideas recipe. It is also a quick weeknight dinners option, and definitely considered one of the easy family dinners .
So there you have it! A Pasta Dinner Recipes and a Chicken Dinner Recipes , that doesn't need much effort, and is done in 30 minutes or less meals .
A great one pot Mediterranean recipes . Get cooking and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean with minimal effort!
Recipe Notes
Right then, before you dive into this cracking one pot Mediterranean recipes , let's have a quick natter about some handy tips and tricks.
Honestly, a bit of forethought can save you a soggy bottom, as they say on Bake Off. Think of these as your cheat sheet to one of the best Easy 1 Pot Dinners you’ll ever make!
Serving Suggestions: Get Your Grub On!
Presentation wise, I reckon a rustic bowl does the trick. A sprinkle of extra feta always looks fab! For sides, crusty bread for soaking up that lemony sauce is a must.
It is a really Easy family dinners . A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a bit of freshness.
As for drinks, a chilled Pinot Grigio works wonders, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. I am all for Lazy day dinner ideas !
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh!
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (unlikely, trust me!), pop them in an airtight container and they’ll be grand in the fridge for up to three days.
For reheating, a gentle simmer on the hob with a splash of broth keeps things moist. I wouldn't recommend freezing this one; the orzo can get a bit mushy.
Variations: Mix It Up a Bit!
Fancy a veggie version? Swap the chicken for chickpeas. Boom! Use vegetable broth, and you're sorted. Feeling brave? Chuck in a handful of spinach at the end for some extra greens.
Or give it a spicy kick with a pinch of cayenne pepper. Honestly, the possibilities are endless! It is 30 Minutes Or Less Meals .
We can also use Pasta Dishes .
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl!
Each serving clocks in around 450 calories, with about 35g of protein, 20g of fat, and 30g of carbs. Loads of protein to keep you going and all the good fats from the olive oil.
Remember, this is just an estimate it all depends on your portion sizes. Let’s not forget the benefits of Chicken Dinner Recipes .
If you are into Pasta Dinner Recipes it’s also a plus! The One-pot chicken orzo recipe is amazing!
So there you have it your complete guide to one-pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo perfection! Get stuck in, have a laugh, and don't be afraid to experiment.
You've got this! With these Quick weeknight dinners it’s all good!.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prevent my orzo from becoming mushy in this one pot dinner idea?
Nobody wants mushy pasta it's the culinary equivalent of soggy chips! Start checking the orzo around the 15-minute mark. You want it to be al dente, with a slight bite. Also, avoid adding too much liquid initially; you can always add more broth if needed, but you can't take it away.
Can I make this one pot lemon herb chicken and orzo vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or white beans. Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you're golden. For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a vegan feta alternative.
This is a flexible recipe, so feel free to experiment!
What's the best way to store leftovers of this one pot dinner?
Leftovers are a treat! Let the one pot dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of water or broth as the orzo will continue to absorb liquid.
A quick zap in the microwave or a gentle simmer on the stovetop will do the trick.
I don't have fresh dill. Can I use dried dill in this one pot dinner idea?
Fresh dill really elevates the flavour, but dried dill can work in a pinch. As a general rule, use about one teaspoon of dried dill for every tablespoon of fresh dill called for in the recipe. However, be mindful that dried herbs can be more potent, so add a little at a time and taste as you go.
You could also substitute with another fresh herb like parsley.
Is this lemon herb chicken and orzo one pot dinner idea healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?
This dish can be a relatively healthy option. It provides a good source of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the orzo, and vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and herbs. Keep in mind that the nutritional information is an estimate, so vary ingredients accordingly.
Use whole wheat orzo to boost the fiber and reduce the fat content by using less olive oil or opting for chicken breast instead of thighs.
Can I add vegetables to this one pot chicken and orzo recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to chuck in some extra veggies to boost the nutrient content and flavour. Spinach or kale are great additions simply stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted. Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be sautéed along with the onion at the beginning.
Get creative and use what you have on hand!
Onepot Lemon Herb Chicken And Orzo
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 0g |
