Name: Zesty Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb), cubed; 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 bell pepper (any color), diced; 1 medium zucchini, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

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Introduction

This Zesty Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a bright and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken cubes sautéed with fresh vegetables and tossed with lemon-infused soy sauce create a light yet satisfying dish. The addition of orzo pasta rounds out the meal for an easy, Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

A white plate filled with a colorful mix of orzo pasta and pieces of cooked chicken breast. The orzo is a light golden color, small and grain-shaped, spread evenly on the plate. Mixed in are bright green broccoli florets and chunks of red and yellow bell peppers, adding vibrant red and yellow patches among the pasta. The chicken pieces are light brown with a slight char, scattered generously on top. The whole dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb)
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
1 bell pepper (any color), diced
1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients by washing and chopping all vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Cube the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Bring a pot of salted water to boil, add the orzo pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add diced bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and broccoli florets. Sauté the vegetables until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce and fresh lemon juice. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet.
Step 6: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and gently toss everything together until evenly combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in lemon juice and soy sauce before cooking.
Swap orzo for couscous or quinoa for a different grain option.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle spicy kick.
Use seasonal veggies like asparagus or snap peas to vary textures and flavors.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist if needed.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a dish with three main layers: the bottom layer is a bed of orange orzo pasta with a smooth, slightly shiny texture; the middle layer consists of bright green broccoli florets and vibrant red and yellow bell pepper pieces, adding color and freshness; the top layer features small, light brown grilled chicken pieces, tender with a slightly crispy surface, scattered evenly over the vegetables and pasta. The dish looks colorful and well mixed, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just thaw and drain any excess water before adding them to the skillet to avoid sogginess.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. This stir fry holds up well in the fridge and can be portioned into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.