The One-Pot Lemon Chicken Skillet I Make On Weeknights
Ingredients
- 6boneless
skinless chicken thighs, 2 to 2 1/2 pounds
- 1 tspkosher salt
plus more
- ½ tspground black pepper
- ¼ colive oil
- 2 corzo
- 3 cchicken stock
- ½ clemon juice
plus more
- 2 tbspchampagne vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 tbspcapers
optional
- ½ cor shredded Parmesan cheese
Directions
- 1
Slice the chicken thighs into strips (about 1/2 inch thick) and transfer them to a medium bowl. Toss the sliced chicken with the salt and pepper to coat.
- 2
Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and swirl the pan so the oil evenly coats the bottom. When the oil begins to shimmer, add the dry orzo to the pan. Cook, stirring continuously, until each grain is coated in oil, the orzo takes on a golden color, and it smells a little nutty, about 2 minutes.
- 3
Add the chicken stock, lemon juice, vinegar, and capers (if using) to the pan and continue to stir. Allow the stock to come to a rolling boil, then immediately turn the heat down to medium. You’re looking for a consistent simmer. Allow the orzo to cook for 8 minutes, stirring every few minutes and scraping the bottom so none of the orzo sticks to the pan.
- 4
At this point, the amount of liquid in the pan should have reduced dramatically and the orzo should be creamy. Add the chicken to the pan and stir it through the orzo. Cover the pan with a lid and cook, stirring at least once, until the chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes. Uncover the pan and continue to cook, stirring often, until the orzo is tender and cooked through, about 8 more minutes.
- 5
Taste to see if the amount of lemon and salt is to your taste. Add another tablespoon of lemon juice, if desired. Stir in the parmesan cheese, then spoon onto plates to serve. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave, covered, in 30-second intervals until heated through. Love the recipe? Leave us stars and a comment below!
The One-Pot Lemon Chicken Skillet I Make On Weeknights
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About this Recipe
The One-Pot Lemon Chicken Skillet: Your New Weeknight Hero
Looking for an incredibly easy weeknight meal that doesn't compromise on flavor? Meet The One-Pot Lemon Chicken Skillet, your answer to delicious, fuss-free dinners! This fantastic dish brings together tender chicken and comforting orzo in a vibrant, zesty sauce, all cooked in a single pan for minimal cleanup. Inspired by the bright, lemony notes of Greek avgolemono soup, this lemon chicken orzo delivers a burst of fresh flavor that will awaken your taste buds.
In just about 35 minutes, you can have a hearty, satisfying meal on the table, perfect for busy evenings. We use juicy boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which cook up tender and absorb all the delightful flavors of the lemon, chicken stock, and a hint of champagne vinegar. The orzo pasta cooks directly in the skillet, soaking up every drop of that incredible sauce, becoming perfectly al dente and infused with citrus. The finish of grated Parmesan cheese adds a lovely creamy, savory depth that perfectly complements the bright lemon.
Tips for Perfect One-Pot Lemon Chicken
- Chicken Variations: While chicken thighs are wonderfully forgiving and flavorful, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be mindful to adjust cooking times to prevent overcooking, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.
- Boost the Veggies: Want to add more greens? Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking, or toss in some cherry tomatoes or chopped asparagus with the orzo for extra color and nutrients.
- Herbal Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley at the end will elevate the Mediterranean-inspired flavors even further, adding a beautiful aromatic touch.
- Serving Suggestions: This one-pot lemon chicken skillet is a complete meal on its own! For an extra touch, serve it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread to sop up any leftover sauce.
This lemon chicken skillet is more than just a meal; it's a smart cooking solution for those demanding weeknights, proving that incredible flavor doesn't require endless dishes or hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness!