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Easy Instant Pot Lemon Herb Chicken with Orzo

Easy Instant Pot Lemon Herb Chicken with Orzo for Quick Bliss

This Easy Instant Pot Lemon Herb Chicken with Orzo combines tender chicken thighs with creamy orzo in a zesty lemon-herb broth, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil can substitute with vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon pepper adjust to taste
For the Aromatics
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced adjust based on preference
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or 1 tsp dried rosemary
For the Broth and Pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth opt for no-sodium options if desired
  • 0.25 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 cups orzo pasta can substitute with small pasta like ditalini
For Garnish
  • lemon slices optional
  • fresh parsley

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
  2. Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode, add olive oil, and sear the chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Remove the chicken and sauté garlic, thyme, and rosemary for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring well to combine.
  5. Add orzo pasta and return the chicken to the pot.
  6. Close the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 6 minutes.
  7. Allow natural release for 5 minutes before switching to 'Venting' to release remaining pressure.
  8. Fluff orzo and chicken gently, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  9. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, or freeze portions for up to 2 months.

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