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Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry

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Quick and healthy, this lemon chicken & veggie orzo stir fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Packed with fresh vegetables, juicy chicken, and zesty lemon flavor, it’s a light and satisfying one-pan meal.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course, One-Pan
  • Method: Stir-Fry, Skillet
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired, American

Ingredients

1 cup orzo

1 lb chicken breast, diced

1 zucchini, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 cup broccoli florets

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook Orzo:
Cook orzo according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Cook Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Cook Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté chopped zucchini, bell pepper, and broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender.

Combine and Stir Fry:
Add the cooked orzo and chicken back into the skillet with the veggies. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook everything together for 2 more minutes, until well mixed and heated through.

Finish & Serve:
Stir in grated Parmesan and adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add chickpeas or tofu.

Dairy-free option: Omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Prep ahead: Chop veggies and dice chicken in advance for faster cooking.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.