Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Bites

1. Season the Chicken – In a large bowl, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and thyme. Toss to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.
2. Cook the Chicken – Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the skillet is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. Add Garlic and Lemon – In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Deglaze with Lemon – Add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. If using, add the crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
3. Return the Chicken – Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat it with the lemon butter sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and well coated with the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic Herb Orzo

1. Sauté Garlic – In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Orzo – Stir in the orzo pasta, coating it with the garlic-infused oil. Add the butter and chicken broth (or water) to the pan, stirring well. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking.
3. Add Herbs and Seasoning – Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and fresh parsley and basil. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if you prefer a more citrus-forward flavor. Stir everything together and remove from heat.

Step 4: Plate the Dish

1. Serve the Orzo – Spoon a generous portion of the garlic herb orzo onto each plate as the base for your dish.
2. Top with Chicken Bites – Pile the lemon butter chicken bites on top of the orzo, ensuring the chicken is well coated with the lemon butter sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top of the chicken for a fresh, bright finish. If desired, add a lemon wedge on the side for an extra burst of citrus when served.
2. Serve Hot – Serve the dish immediately, pairing it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.