Description
This one-pan meal features juicy, golden-brown chicken thighs drizzled with garlic butter and topped with sautéed lemon slices. Served alongside lemony Parmesan orzo and fresh baby spinach, it’s a flavorful and satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights
Ingredients
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2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4 large thighs)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp butter, divided
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4 cloves garlic, minced (1 clove reserved)
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1 lemon, sliced into rounds
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8 oz dried orzo (half of a 16 oz package)
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3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
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2 cups baby spinach
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1/4 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken:
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Pat the chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
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Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
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Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.No. 2 Pencil
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Sauté Lemon Slices:
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In the same skillet, add the lemon slices and lightly brown them on each side.
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Remove the lemon slices and set aside.No. 2 Pencil
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Cook the Orzo:
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Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
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Reduce heat to medium-low and add 1 tablespoon of butter.
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Sauté 3 cloves of minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a boil.
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Stir in the orzo and return the chicken thighs to the skillet.
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Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Notes
For a lighter version, you can use skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the chicken and orzo together on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: One-Pan Chicken, Lemon Garlic Chicken, Orzo, Weeknight Dinner