Description
A flavorful and light dish featuring tender chicken coated in crushed pistachios, served with a zesty lemon orzo for a refreshing, protein-packed meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pistachios, shelled and crushed
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for orzo)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, mix crushed pistachios, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat it with the pistachio mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken breasts on both sides (about 3–4 minutes per side).
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken bakes, cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and toss with olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley.
- Serve the pistachio-crusted chicken on top of the lemon orzo. Garnish with additional parsley, if desired.
Notes
- For extra crunch, toast the crushed pistachios in a dry skillet before coating the chicken.
- If you prefer, swap the chicken for turkey or pork tenderloin.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: pistachio chicken, lemon orzo, healthy chicken recipe, baked chicken with orzo, pistachio crusted chicken