By Gary 
Feeding a family of five, this One Pot Lemon Pepper Chicken with Orzo combines the aromatic flavors of seasoned chicken thighs with the creamy texture of orzo, all enriched by a flavorful broth. The dish is finished with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese for a perfect fusion of simplicity and deliciousness that is sure to make any family meal special.
### Ingredients
– **Chicken:**
– 6 chicken thighs (preferably bone-in with skin)
– **Seasonings and Condiments:**
– 3 Tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
– 1.5 Tbsp cooking oil
– **Aromatics:**
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– **Liquids:**
– 3 cups chicken broth
– **Herbs:**
– 1/3 cup chopped parsley
– **Pasta:**
– 2 cups orzo
– **Cheese:**
– 3 oz. feta, crumbled
### Preparation of Chicken
First, prepare the chicken by using a paper towel to blot the thighs dry. Season both sides with lemon pepper seasoning, ensuring you coat them liberally using approximately 3 tablespoons.
### Browning the Chicken
In a large, deep skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin side down and cook them undisturbed until they are browned, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Flip the chicken to brown the other side, then remove and transfer the thighs to a plate once they’re browned.
### Aromatics Preparation
While the chicken is browning, you can prepare the aromatics. Roughly chop the parsley, keeping a portion aside for garnishing, and mince the garlic. Reduce the skillet heat to low and add the minced garlic to the residual chicken fat, sautéing for around one minute until fragrant.
### Building the Dish
To build the dish, pour the chicken broth into the skillet, gently stirring to deglaze the pan and incorporating any crispy bits into the broth. Add the orzo and half of the chopped parsley, stirring to combine these ingredients thoroughly. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, arranging them skin side up.
### Simmering
Cover the skillet with a lid and increase the heat to high, bringing the broth to a full boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for about 15 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed, adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain the simmer.
### Finishing Touches
Fluff the orzo gently with a fork around the chicken thighs. Top the dish with the remaining chopped parsley and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the skillet.
### Serving
This delightful One Pot Lemon Pepper Chicken with Orzo is ready to serve while warm. Bring this hearty and flavorful meal to the table and delight in its wonderful aroma and taste with your loved ones. Enjoy!