Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Orzo is a perfect meal for any occasion.
It’s simple, delicious, and healthy – a winning combination for any home cook.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Serving Suggestions for Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Orzo
Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Orzo:
Fresh Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or lemon dressing. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion for extra crunch and flavor.
Crusty Bread: Pair with a warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the savory juices from the skillet.
Roasted Vegetables: Complement the dish with additional roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or asparagus for a hearty and colorful meal.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay to balance the flavors of the chicken and orzo.
Lemon Wedges: Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their dish, adding a fresh, zesty flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Provide a small bowl of freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle over their servings as desired.
Herb Garnish: Garnish with additional fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or oregano for added freshness and aroma.
Side of Hummus: Add a small side of hummus with pita bread or vegetables for a Mediterranean touch.
Grilled Vegetables: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and red bell peppers to add a smoky flavor.
Fruit Salad: Finish the meal with a light and refreshing fruit salad made of seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and citrus slices for a balanced and satisfying conclusion.
These serving suggestions will complement the flavors of the Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Orzo, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable meal.
Cooking Tips
Here are some cooking tips to ensure your Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Orzo turn out perfectly:
Pat the Chicken Dry: Before seasoning and searing the chicken thighs, make sure to pat them dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy skin.
Season Generously: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme to enhance the flavor.
Proper Heat: Sear the chicken thighs over medium-high heat to get a nice golden-brown crust. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear.
Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh broccoli florets. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding to the skillet.
Orzo Cooking: Stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. If the liquid evaporates too quickly, add a bit more chicken broth or water as needed.
Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken thighs are cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
Steaming Broccoli: To keep the broccoli bright green and tender-crisp, you can steam or blanch it separately before adding it to the orzo. This prevents overcooking.
Layering Flavors: After searing the chicken, consider deglazing the skillet with a splash of white wine or chicken broth to lift the flavorful bits from the bottom before adding the garlic and orzo.
Lemon Flavor: Use fresh lemon zest and juice to add a bright and zesty flavor to the dish. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Resting Time: Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Parmesan Cheese: For extra creaminess and flavor, stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the orzo just before serving. This helps the cheese melt smoothly into the dish.
Garnish: Freshly chopped parsley or other herbs added just before serving will enhance the presentation and add a burst of freshness.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Orzo are cooked to perfection, with a balance of flavors and textures that make this dish truly delicious. Enjoy!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I substitute orzo with a different type of pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even rice work well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper when sautéing the garlic.
What can I use instead of chicken broth for deglazing?
Vegetable broth, white wine, or even water with a splash of lemon juice are good alternatives.
Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Orzo
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
For the Orzo and Broccoli:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme.Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes until browned on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Orzo:In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.Add the orzo, chicken broth, and water to the skillet. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the Broccoli:While the orzo is cooking, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are just tender, about 3-4 minutes.Once the orzo is cooked, add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Combine and Finish:Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo and broccoli mixture.Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to heat through.Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Chicken Thighs: For extra crispy skin, make sure the chicken thighs are patted dry before seasoning and searing.
- Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a bit more water or broth if it dries out before the orzo is fully cooked.
- Broccoli: To keep the broccoli vibrant green and tender, blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes and then immediately plunge it into ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Flavor Boost: For additional flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the skillet after searing the chicken and before adding the garlic and orzo.