Lemon-Parmesan Chicken Thighs with Orzo

Ingredients

- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ cups orzo
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon champagne vinegar
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken thighs with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavor.

2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for approximately 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Orzo: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the orzo, stirring frequently until it is lightly toasted, about 3 minutes.

4. Add Stock and Cook Orzo: Slowly pour the chicken stock into the skillet. Stir well to combine with the orzo. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the stock is mostly absorbed.

5. Prepare the Sauce: Add the lemon juice, champagne vinegar, and capers to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to incorporate.

6. Combine Ingredients: Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Cover and let them cook for another 10-12 minutes over low heat, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature) and the orzo is creamy.

7. Finish the Dish: Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the entire dish, allowing it to melt and integrate with the orzo.

8. Serve: Plate the creamy, lemony orzo topped with the perfectly cooked chicken thighs. Garnish with additional black pepper if desired.

Total Time

PT45M
45 minutes

Type of Dish

Dinner

Keywords

Chicken Thighs, Lemon, Parmesan, Orzo, Capers, Dinner Recipes, Chicken Dinner, Stove-Top Recipe, Italian-Inspired, Easy Gourmet

Recipe Yield

Feeds 4 adults

Calories

Total: 1600 calories

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