Sizzling Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Orzo Recipe

Creamy, comforting skillet chicken thighs dance with tender broccoli and soft orzo in a dish that promises pure satisfaction.

Weeknight dinners rarely come this delicious and straightforward.

Juicy chicken nestles perfectly against vibrant green florets, creating a balanced meal packed with flavor.

Mediterranean-inspired seasonings bring warmth and depth to every bite you’ll savor.

Home cooks can master this one-pan wonder without complicated techniques or endless ingredient lists.

Crispy chicken skin and al dente orzo combine in a harmony that feels both elegant and approachable.

Come hungry and prepare to be delighted by this simple yet spectacular culinary creation.

What Goes into Skillet Chicken Thighs with Orzo

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful base of the dish.

• Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Paprika, Dried Thyme: Essential spices for enhancing chicken flavor.

• Orzo: Small rice-shaped pasta that creates a creamy base.

• Chicken Broth, Water: Provides moisture and depth of flavor for cooking orzo.

• Broccoli Florets: Adds green nutrition and texture to the skillet meal.

• Minced Garlic: Adds rich, deep flavor to the dish.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides creamy, salty finish.
• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Adds bright, citrusy brightness.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds color and fresh herb flavor to the final dish.

Instructions for Cooking Chicken Thighs and Orzo

Step 1: Spice and Sear Chicken

Blend seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme.

Coat chicken thighs thoroughly with the spice mix.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Place chicken thighs skin-side down and cook until skin turns golden and crispy, around 5-7 minutes.

Flip chicken and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until both sides are beautifully browned.

Transfer chicken to a separate plate.

Step 2: Create Orzo Base

In the same skillet, quickly sauté minced garlic until aromatic.

Add orzo, chicken broth, and water.

Stir ingredients to ensure even distribution.

Bring liquid to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.

Cover skillet and cook until orzo becomes tender and most liquid absorbs, approximately 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Broccoli

While orzo cooks, steam or blanch broccoli florets until they reach a tender but vibrant green state, about 3-4 minutes.

Once orzo is ready, fold broccoli into the skillet, mixing gently.

Step 4: Combine and Enhance Flavors

Reintroduce chicken thighs into the skillet, nestling them into orzo and broccoli mixture.

Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, add lemon zest and juice.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Scatter fresh chopped parsley over the dish.

Plate immediately and savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Top Cooking Tips for This One-Skillet Dish

• Pat chicken thighs dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in maximum flavor and creates a delectable crust.
• Stir orzo frequently while cooking to avoid clumping and ensure even cooking, creating a creamy and well-distributed texture throughout the dish.
• Blanch broccoli briefly to preserve its vibrant green color and crisp texture, preventing overcooking that can lead to mushy, dull-looking vegetables.
• Add Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and juice at the end to brighten the dish and provide a tangy, rich finish that elevates the overall taste profile.
• Swap chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts or plant-based protein alternatives to accommodate different dietary preferences while maintaining the recipe's core essence.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Thighs with Orzo

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken and orzo are completely cooled before sealing.
• Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Chicken and orzo can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
• Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent dryness. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly.
• Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking. Stir gently and cover, heating for 3-4 minutes until thoroughly warmed.

What Pairs Well with Chicken Thighs and Orzo

• Flavor-Boosting Wine Pairing: Select a crisp, light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the lemony chicken and cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Herbal Beverage Match: Brew a fresh mint or basil tea that echoes the herb notes in the recipe and provides a refreshing counterpoint to the savory chicken and creamy orzo.
• Zesty Citrus Accompaniment: Mix a bright lemon spritzer with sparkling water, fresh lemon juice, and a hint of honey to enhance the citrusy undertones of the chicken and create a palate-cleansing drink.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Side Drink: Create a quick Greek-style yogurt smoothie with cucumber, mint, and a touch of olive oil to mirror the Mediterranean flavors in the skillet chicken dish.

Recipe Twists for Chicken Thighs and Orzo

• Vegetarian Orzo Bowl: Replace chicken thighs with firm tofu or tempeh, seasoned with the same spices. Grill or pan-sear the protein alternative until golden and crispy.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap orzo with quinoa or cauliflower rice to create a celiac-friendly version. Maintain the same cooking method and seasonings for a similar taste profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Remix: Add fresh oregano, rosemary, and extra mint to enhance the herb blend. Include crumbled feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a Greek-inspired variation.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute orzo with riced cauliflower or zucchini noodles. Keep the chicken and broccoli components intact, adjusting cooking times for the alternative base ingredient.

FAQs

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust cooking time as they cook faster and can dry out more quickly than thighs.

• Do I need to use bone-in or skinless chicken thighs?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for this recipe. They provide more flavor and help keep the meat juicy during cooking.

• Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?

While Parmesan adds rich flavor, you can substitute with other hard cheeses like pecorino or skip it entirely if you prefer. The dish will still taste delicious.

• How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked through.

Why You’ll Crave Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Orzo

• Enjoy a complete meal prepared in a single pan, minimizing cleanup and making cooking a breeze for busy home chefs.
• Combine tender chicken thighs, creamy orzo, and vibrant broccoli for a perfectly balanced dish that appeals to various taste preferences.
• Pack protein, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables into one delightful recipe that delivers maximum nutrition with minimal effort.
• Swap ingredients or add personal twists like different herbs, cheeses, or vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours while maintaining its delicious core.

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Orzo Recipe

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4.5 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Skillet chicken thighs mingle with tender broccoli and creamy orzo in this Mediterranean-inspired one-pan wonder. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, promising a comforting meal that satisfies with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Carbohydrates and Vegetables:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups broccoli florets

Seasonings and Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Infuse chicken thighs with a vibrant blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme, creating a flavor-packed seasoning layer.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then carefully place seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down, allowing the skin to transform into a golden, crispy masterpiece over 5-7 minutes.
3. Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until achieving a beautiful brown color on the opposite side, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, introduce minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, releasing its aromatic essence.
5. Pour orzo, chicken broth, and water into the skillet, stirring to combine all elements thoroughly.
6. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, allowing the orzo to become tender and absorb most of the liquid.
7. Simultaneously, prepare broccoli florets by steaming or blanching for 3-4 minutes until they reach a perfect crisp-tender consistency.
8. Fold the prepared broccoli into the orzo, creating a harmonious mixture of grains and vegetables.
9. Carefully nestle the cooked chicken thighs back into the skillet, gently pressing them into the orzo and broccoli medley.
10. Cover and allow the dish to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, enabling the flavors to meld and the chicken to warm through completely.
11. Elevate the dish’s brightness by stirring in grated Parmesan cheese, zesty lemon zest, and a splash of lemon juice.
12. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
13. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a final touch of color and freshness.
14. Serve piping hot, inviting everyone to savor this delightful one-skillet wonder.

Notes

• Master the chicken skin crisp by patting thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum browning and crunch.
• Customize the dish for dietary needs by swapping orzo with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version or using gluten-free pasta alternatives.
• Prevent orzo from becoming mushy by measuring liquid precisely and stirring occasionally during cooking to maintain perfect texture.
• Elevate flavor complexity by adding a splash of white wine when deglazing the skillet before adding broth, which enhances overall depth and richness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 440
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg