Description
Ready in under 40 minutes, this Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is the ultimate solution for quick dinner ideas that don’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. A zesty, savory combination of golden seared chicken, vibrant vegetables, and tender orzo pasta, all tossed in a bright lemony sauce—this easy dinner recipe is a one-pan wonder. Ideal for healthy snacks, quick lunches, or light yet hearty dinner ideas, it’s a wholesome meal with a Mediterranean twist. With its colorful presentation and comforting aroma, this dish turns weeknight cooking into something special. Whether you’re after an easy recipe, family food ideas, or light meal prep inspiration, this stir fry checks every box.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red onion (optional)
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a saucepan of salted water to boil. Cook orzo until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, half the lemon juice, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Marinate 15–20 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté broccoli, bell peppers, and red onion until just tender (4–5 minutes). Add tomatoes and cook 2–3 minutes more.
- Return chicken to skillet. Add orzo, remaining lemon juice, lemon zest, and a splash of pasta water if needed. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Season to taste. Garnish with parsley, lemon wedges, and Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.