One Pan Moroccan Lemon Chicken with Orzo

One Pan Moroccan Lemon Chicken with Orzo

Today, we’re diving into the vibrant world of Moroccan cuisine with a dish that promises bold flavors and a breeze in the kitchen: One Pan Moroccan Lemon Chicken with Orzo. This recipe is not only packed with spices that whisk your senses away to Northern Africa, but it’s also incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Here’s how you can bring this aromatic delight to your table.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron, crushed
• 2/3 cup orzo
• 1 1/3 cup chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
• 1/2 cup mixed pitted olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for topping

Directions:

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Generously salt and pepper both sides of the chicken thighs.
2. Brown the Chicken:
   • Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmery.
   • Arrange thighs, smooth side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned.
   • Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
3. Sauté Aromatics and Spices:
   • Lower heat to medium.
   • Add onion and garlic to the skillet; sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Add paprika, kosher salt, cumin, ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and saffron. Stir until onions are coated.
4. Cook Orzo:
   • Add orzo and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
   • Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer with Chicken:
   • Place chicken thighs back in the skillet, nestling them into the orzo.
   • Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until orzo is al dente and chicken reaches 165 degrees F.
6. Finish with Lemon and Olives:
   • Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and olives. Remove from heat.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the dish topped with chopped parsley and slivered almonds if desired.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: 560 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

This One Pan Moroccan Lemon Chicken with Orzo is not just a meal; it’s a vibrant tableau of Moroccan culture, infused in every bite with the warm, inviting flavors of this rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just elevate your weeknight dinner routine, this dish is sure to be a showstopper. Enjoy the exotic tastes right from your kitchen!

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