Dinner

Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry Recipe

ByVictor Layne January 7, 2026January 7, 2026

Introduction

Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry is a bright, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and orzo pasta with zesty lemon. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal that feels both light and hearty.

A close-up image of a white plate filled with a cooked dish where the base layer is light brown orzo pasta scattered all over. On top, medium-sized pieces of grilled chicken with golden brown seared marks are evenly spread. Mixed throughout are bright chunks of red and yellow bell peppers, small green broccoli florets, and bits of minced green herbs sprinkled lightly across the top, adding a fresh touch. The dish shows a glossy texture from a light sauce coating the ingredients. The background shows a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup chicken broth or low-sodium broth
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add to the skillet and sauté until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Add minced garlic and mixed vegetables, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
Step 4: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained orzo, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
Step 6: Transfer to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if using, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
Adjust the tanginess by adding more or less lemon juice and zest to suit your taste.
Try swapping chicken with shrimp or tofu for different dietary preferences.
Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your stir fry.
Mix in Mediterranean flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or artichoke hearts for a new twist.
For a gluten-free option, substitute orzo with gluten-free orzo or rice.
Include nuts like slivered almonds or pine nuts just before serving for extra crunch.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To freeze, cool completely and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a dish with three main layers mixed together: golden brown grilled chicken pieces on the top, bright green broccoli florets scattered around, and colorful chopped bell peppers in red, yellow, and orange mixed throughout. The base layer consists of small, shiny brown orzo pasta, with small pieces of green herbs sprinkled on top. The food is served on a white plate, and the background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice work well as substitutes for orzo in this stir fry.

How do I store leftover stir fry?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

Victor Layne