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Lemony Chicken Stew with Orzo Recipe


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3.9 from 46 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

A bright and comforting chicken stew infused with fresh lemon flavor and tender orzo pasta. This dish is light yet satisfying, with a delicate balance of citrus and savory notes, perfect for a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meal.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 chicken breasts or thighs
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta

Seasonings & Garnish

  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Fresh parsley for garnish


Instructions

  1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Add chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Chicken and Broth: Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the pot along with 6 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  4. Simmer Chicken: Reduce heat to low and simmer the stew gently for 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
  5. Shred Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it finely using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  6. Cook Orzo: Stir in 1/2 cup of orzo pasta into the simmering broth. Continue cooking for 8–10 minutes or until the orzo is tender but not mushy.
  7. Add Flavor: Stir in the juice of one lemon, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the hot stew into bowls, garnish each with fresh parsley, and serve warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • Add spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.
  • Adjust lemon juice based on your preferred level of brightness.
  • For a quicker option, substitute cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean