Introduction
Bright, bold, and full of flavor, this Zesty Lemon Chicken Stir Fry with Colorful Veggies and Orzo is a refreshing twist on weeknight dinners. Juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a pop of lemon come together for a balanced and easy one-skillet meal that’s perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Toss in bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add cooked orzo, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Variation
- Swap Chicken for Shrimp or Tofu – For a lighter or pescatarian twist, use shrimp instead of chicken. Just cook the shrimp until pink and opaque, about 3 minutes per side. For a vegetarian option, pan-fried tofu cubes hold up beautifully with the lemony flavor.
- Make it Creamy – Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end for a silky, tangy cream sauce that still highlights the lemon.
- Add Nuts for Crunch – Toss in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds just before serving to add texture and a nutty contrast to the bright and zesty flavors.
Cooking Notes
- For added depth, use a splash of chicken broth when combining the orzo and veggies.
- Try different veggies like snap peas or mushrooms for variety.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days great for meal prep!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a Side Salad – Pair with a crisp cucumber and tomato salad tossed in olive oil and red wine vinegar to keep the meal fresh and vibrant.
- Add a Warm Flatbread or Pita – A warm piece of flatbread or pita makes it easy to scoop every last bite of this saucy skillet and adds a comforting, hearty touch.
- Top with Feta or Parmesan – A sprinkle of crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan cheese brings a salty, savory finish that plays beautifully with the lemon and herbs.
Tips
- Prep Ingredients in Advance – Since stir-fries cook quickly, have everything chopped and ready to go before turning on the stove for a smooth cooking experience.
- Cook Chicken in Batches if Needed – To ensure a nice golden sear, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook the chicken in two batches if needed for even browning.
- Use a Large Skillet or Wok – A spacious pan allows the ingredients to cook evenly without steaming, keeping your veggies crisp and the chicken juicy.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 26 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use rice instead of orzo?
Yes, cooked rice can be used in place of orzo. Just make sure it’s fluffy and not overly moist to avoid a soggy dish. -
Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to a day in advance. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. -
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
This meal is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. -
What other vegetables can I add?
Great options include snap peas, mushrooms, baby spinach, or even thinly sliced carrots for more color and crunch.
Conclusion
This Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is everything you want in a quick and flavorful dinner—zesty, wholesome, and packed with vibrant colors. Perfect for busy weeknights or a light weekend meal, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. 🍋🍴
Print
Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Bright, bold, and full of flavor, this Zesty Lemon Chicken Stir Fry with Colorful Veggies and Orzo is a refreshing twist on weeknight dinners. Juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a pop of lemon come together for a balanced and easy one-skillet meal that’s perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Toss in bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add cooked orzo, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For added depth, use a splash of chicken broth when combining the orzo and veggies.
- Try different veggies like snap peas or mushrooms for variety.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days great for meal prep!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-pan
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: lemon chicken stir fry, orzo skillet, healthy chicken dinner, one-pan recipe