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One Pan Chicken Zucchini and Orzo with crispy chicken, creamy orzo, and fresh parsley on a white plate

One Pan Chicken Zucchini and Orzo

This One Pan Chicken Zucchini and Orzo is an easy one pan chicken dinner that brings bold Mediterranean flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this chicken zucchini orzo recipe combines tender chicken legs, creamy orzo, and fresh veggies for a healthy chicken orzo skillet that's sure to impress.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 lbs (1.36 kg) bone-in, skin-on chicken legs or thighs These stay incredibly juicy and flavorful. You could swap for boneless cuts, but the crispy skin is worth it!
  • Salt, garlic powder, and onion powder (to taste)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 sweet onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lb (453.59 g) uncooked orzo
  • 1 medium zucchini grated
  • 32 oz (0.91 L) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (118.29 ml) milk
  • 1 tsp Italian herb seasoning
  • 1-2 lemons halved
  • Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken dry and generously season with salt, garlic powder, and onion powder on all sides.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken skin-side down and sear for 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 20 seconds.
  5. Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet and stir to coat in the onion-garlic mixture. Mix in the grated zucchini.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and Italian herb seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo mixture. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes on low, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the orzo is al dente.
  8. Serve immediately with a big squeeze of lemon juice over each serving. Garnish with parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Leftovers? Store in an airtight container for 3 days and reheat with a splash of broth to revive the creamy texture.