One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

There’s something deeply comforting about a dish like One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo. It reminds me of late spring evenings when the sun lingers a little longer, casting a golden glow over the dinner table. My grandmother used to make a similar dish, filling the house with the warm scent of garlic and citrus as we gathered around, eagerly waiting for dinner.

This dish carries a Mediterranean spirit — lemon, garlic, tender chicken, and orzo pasta cooked all together in one pan. It’s a meal that speaks of family, ease, and bold, fresh flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or want something special without the fuss of multiple pots, this one-pan wonder promises satisfaction.

Not only does it save you from a pile of dishes, but it also allows the ingredients to meld beautifully — the orzo soaking up all the tangy, garlicky juices from the chicken. It’s a dish that brings people together, perfect for sharing and savoring every last bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pan, easy cleanup: No mountain of dishes.
• Bursting with flavor: Lemon, garlic, and herbs make every bite pop.
• Perfectly tender chicken: Crispy on the outside, juicy inside.
• Comforting orzo base: Soft, flavorful pasta that catches all the pan juices.
• Great for any night: Feels fancy, but it’s totally weeknight-friendly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo feels like preparing a little feast without all the stress. I always start by seasoning the chicken well — salt, pepper, and a touch of oregano bring the flavor alive.

1. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pan over medium heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and let them sizzle until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Build the flavor base: In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the orzo and toast it slightly, stirring it in the garlicky oil. This step makes the orzo extra flavorful.

1. Add liquids and chicken: Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, stirring to combine. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the pan, skin-side up, making sure they sit snugly in the orzo.
2. Bake to perfection: Transfer the pan to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the orzo is tender, having absorbed all the lemony broth.
3. Finish and serve: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve straight from the pan, letting everyone scoop up juicy chicken and creamy orzo in one perfect bite.

I always love how the lemon and garlic fill the kitchen with such a warm, inviting smell — it makes me think of family dinners and second helpings.

Helpful Tips

• Crispy skin tip: Make sure the chicken skin is dry before searing. Pat it with paper towels for the best golden crisp.
• Orzo swap: If you don’t have orzo, small pasta like pearl couscous works too.
• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh thyme or basil over the top for an extra fragrant touch.
• Extra lemony: Serve with lemon wedges for anyone who loves an extra citrus kick.

Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: One-pan, baked
• Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
• Diet: Balanced, poultry-based

Notes

This dish works beautifully with lamb thighs if you want to switch things up. You can also add a handful of baby spinach at the end for extra greens.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, but reduce baking time by about 5-7 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this ahead?
You can prep the seared chicken and orzo base ahead, then bake right before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water to loosen up the orzo.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• One-Pot Chicken Orzo
• Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta
• AUTHENTIC GREEK CHICKEN SOUVLAKI
• Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo – A Flavorful One-Pan Meal

Conclusion

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo is the kind of dish that feels both comforting and exciting. It’s a little reminder that home cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With bright lemon, savory garlic, tender chicken, and creamy orzo all in one pan, this meal is sure to become a regular at your table. Gather your loved ones, pour yourself a glass of something refreshing, and savor every cozy bite.

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