When it comes to weeknight dinners that are both delicious and easy to clean up, this One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo is a true winner. Packed with bright citrus flavors, aromatic garlic, and juicy chicken thighs, this dish is a one-pan wonder that comes together effortlessly. The orzo, cooked right in the same pan, absorbs all the rich flavors of the chicken and garlic, making every bite a satisfying, complete meal.

This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want something flavorful but don’t have the time or energy for complicated prep and cleanup. The balance of savory, zesty, and herb-infused flavors will please the whole family. With a crispy skin on the chicken, tender orzo, and the hint of lemon, each bite is bursting with Mediterranean-inspired goodness. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on any day, whether it’s a casual dinner, a special meal for guests, or a hearty dish for meal prep. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how amazing it tastes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup since everything cooks in a single pan.
Bold and Bright Flavors – The lemon and garlic infuse the chicken and orzo with a mouthwatering Mediterranean flair.
Juicy Chicken Thighs – Chicken thighs stay tender and juicy, unlike breasts, making them the perfect protein for this dish.
Quick and Simple – It’s ready in under an hour with minimal prep, perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable – Add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or a side salad to make it your own.

Ingredients

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Orzo pasta
Olive oil
Garlic
Lemon (zested and juiced)
Chicken broth
Fresh thyme or rosemary
Salt
Pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a veggie-packed meal.
Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the dish a little heat.
Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the orzo while cooking for added nutrition.
Quinoa Substitute: If you prefer quinoa, you can swap it out for the orzo for a gluten-free alternative.
Different Protein: Chicken breasts or even pork chops can be used instead of thighs.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 5–7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the garlic and oil. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then bring it to a simmer.

Step 4: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the orzo. Add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Cover the skillet and transfer it to the oven.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C) and the orzo is tender and absorbed the liquid.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven, discard the herb sprigs, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

For crispy skin: Don’t skip the searing step—this will help get that beautifully crispy skin on the chicken.
Don’t overcook the orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks in the chicken broth—it should absorb the liquid but not become mushy.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary adds a fragrant aroma to the dish. If you use dried herbs, reduce the amount by half.
Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are best for this dish, as they stay juicier during cooking. You can use boneless thighs, but they will cook faster.
Lemon: For an extra zesty kick, add extra lemon juice just before serving.

How to Serve

Serve directly from the pan for a rustic, family-style meal.
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner.
A dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce makes a refreshing topping.
Serve with a side of warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and orzo separately or together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or in a covered skillet over medium heat, adding a little chicken broth or water to loosen up the orzo.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, but boneless thighs will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I substitute another type of pasta for orzo?

Yes, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or farfalle, though cooking times may vary.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare everything and refrigerate it. Reheat in the oven or stovetop before serving.

4. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

If you use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta, it can be made gluten-free.

5. How do I get the chicken skin extra crispy?

Be sure to sear the chicken on high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.

6. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be aware that chicken breasts can dry out more easily than thighs, so watch the cooking time closely.

7. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes to the orzo or chicken.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added to the orzo for extra flavor and nutrition.

9. Do I need to use fresh herbs?

Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary provide the best flavor, but dried herbs work if you don’t have fresh ones.

10. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of the oven?

Yes, after searing the chicken and cooking the orzo, cover the pan and simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo has absorbed the liquid.

Conclusion

One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Orzo is a flavorful, simple, and satisfying meal that is perfect for busy nights. With its combination of tender chicken, zesty lemon, savory garlic, and perfectly cooked orzo, this dish delivers both comfort and excitement in every bite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the fact that everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing a delicious meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation.