Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo (Print-Friendly Version)
Tender chicken, creamy orzo, lemon, Parmesan, and fresh spinach create a vibrant one-pan Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken
01 -
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
02 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
03 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
Zest of 1 lemon
05 -
Juice of 1 lemon
06 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
07 -
0.5 teaspoon salt
08 -
0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ Orzo and Sauce
09 -
200 grams orzo pasta
10 -
480 milliliters chicken broth
11 -
0.5 teaspoon salt
12 -
0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
13 -
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
14 -
25 grams grated Parmesan cheese
15 -
30 grams fresh spinach, optional
→ Garnish
16 -
Fresh parsley, chopped
17 -
Red pepper flakes, optional
# How to Make It:
01 -
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
02 -
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Pour in chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
03 -
Nestle the seared chicken into the simmering orzo. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and chicken is fully cooked through.
04 -
Stir in lemon juice, butter, Parmesan cheese, and spinach if using. Allow spinach to wilt for 1-2 minutes.
05 -
Remove skillet from the heat and let rest briefly. Garnish with chopped parsley, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
# Additional Tips:
01 -
For extra depth of flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and squeeze lemon juice just before adding to the dish.