Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie is a dish that has transformed my weeknight dinners into delightful culinary experiences. This quick and easy recipe is a vibrant stir-fry that bursts with Mediterranean flavors. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something healthy and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this flavorful lemon chicken recipe that will surely become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie
This dish is not just another meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and health! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this tangy lemon chicken dish:
- Quick to prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Healthy option: Packed with veggies and lean protein.
- One-pan wonder: Easy cleanup with minimal dishes.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables.
- Fresh flavors: The combination of lemon and herbs is irresistible.
- Great for meal prep: Perfect for lunches or quick dinners.
With its Mediterranean cuisine and low-calorie diet, this dish is ideal for anyone seeking a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste!
Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie
Gather these items:
- 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 2 cloves Fresh Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Orzo Pasta
- 1 cup Bell Peppers (a mix of red, green, and yellow, chopped)
- 1 medium Zucchini (sliced thinly)
- 1 cup Broccoli Florets (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (low-sodium)
- 3 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
How to Make Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Prepare Ingredients: Wash and chop bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes.
- Step 2: Cook Orzo: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Step 4: Add Vegetables: Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli, sautéing for about 5 minutes.
- Step 5: Create Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce and lemon juice in a bowl. Pour over chicken and vegetables in the skillet, stirring to coat evenly.
- Step 6: Combine: Add drained orzo to the skillet and gently toss. Cook for another 2 minutes and serve, optionally drizzling with extra lemon juice.
Pro Tips for the Best Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie
Keep these in mind:
- For a healthy lemon chicken and vegetable recipe, opt for fresh, seasonal vegetables.
- Marinate the chicken briefly in lemon juice for an extra zingy flavor.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish light and healthy.
Best Ways to Serve Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Here are some ideas:
- Serve over a bed of quinoa for a filling meal.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light lunch option.
- Try it as a filling in zesty lemon chicken skewers for a fun twist.
How to Store and Reheat Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie
For meal prep, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This method keeps the flavors intact, making for a quick easy zesty lemon chicken meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie
What’s the secret to perfect Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie?
The secret lies in using fresh lemon juice and a mix of colorful vegetables. This helps create a zingy lemon chicken with vegetables that is both vibrant and flavorful!
Can I make Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time, and just combine and cook when ready for a quick zesty lemon chicken dinner.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie?
Ensure not to overcook the vegetables; they should remain crisp. This adds to the dish’s texture and enhances the overall flavorful lemon chicken recipe.
Variations of Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie You Can Try
Here are some creative twists:
- For a lemon chicken with roasted veggies, roast the vegetables instead of sautéing them.
- Add spices like paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Swap orzo for brown rice for a different grain option.
This Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie recipe not only satisfies my cravings but also aligns perfectly with my busy lifestyle. It’s a wonderful addition to any dinner table, and I hope it brings as much joy to your home as it does to mine!
For more delicious recipes, check out our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or try making Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil. If you’re interested in healthy meal prep, Veggie Burgers with Avocado Green Harissa are a great option!
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Zesty Lemon Chicken Veggie: 30-Minute Mediterranean Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A quick and delightful Zesty Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry, perfect for busy weeknights and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 2 cloves Fresh Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Orzo Pasta
- 1 cup Bell Peppers (a mix of red, green, and yellow, chopped)
- 1 medium Zucchini (sliced thinly)
- 1 cup Broccoli Florets (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (low-sodium)
- 3 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash and chop bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes.
- Cook Orzo: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Add Vegetables: Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli, sautéing for about 5 minutes.
- Create Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce and lemon juice in a bowl. Pour over chicken and vegetables in the skillet, stirring to coat evenly.
- Combine: Add drained orzo to the skillet and gently toss. Cook for another 2 minutes and serve, optionally drizzling with extra lemon juice.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
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