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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo (30-Minutes)

Lemon Chicken Orzo

If you are looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner, this Lemon Chicken Orzo is the perfect choice.

Combining tender chicken, creamy orzo, and a zesty lemon-infused broth, this one-pan dish delivers both comfort and freshness.

Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

The combination of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan creates a rich, savory dish with a touch of brightness.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving a family dinner, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe

  • One-pan meal for easy cleanup
  • Bright and fresh flavors with lemon and herbs
  • Creamy and comforting thanks to the orzo
  • Quick and easy – ready in 30 minutes
  • Great for leftovers and meal prep

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Orzo:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add the orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer Everything Together

  1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo.
  2. Cover and let simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  3. Stir in the lemon juice, butter, Parmesan cheese, and spinach (if using). Let the spinach wilt for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

  1. Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
  2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  3. Serve warm and enjoy!
Lemon Chicken Orzo close up

Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken Orzo

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
  • Toast the orzo before adding the broth for a nutty depth.
  • For extra juiciness, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
  • Make it creamy by stirring in a bit of heavy cream or Greek yogurt.
  • Add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes or zucchini for more nutrition.

Variations and Add-Ins

  • Dairy-free option: Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast.
  • Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or white beans.
  • Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes.
  • Extra protein: Stir in cooked shrimp or tofu for variety.

What to Serve with Lemon Chicken Orzo

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months (without dairy for best results).
  • Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for extra nutrition.

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! You can substitute orzo with small pasta like ditalini or pearl couscous. Just adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed.

Lemon Chicken Orzo

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo (30-Minutes)

Lemon Chicken Orzo is a quick and easy one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and bright lemon flavors. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is made with simple ingredients like garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy days.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 425 kcal

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Orzo:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach optional

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley chopped
  • Red pepper flakes optional

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

  • Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

  • In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Add the orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.

  • Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer Everything Together

  • Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo.

  • Cover and let simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

  • Stir in the lemon juice, butter, Parmesan cheese, and spinach (if using). Let the spinach wilt for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

  • Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes.

  • Sprinkle with fresh parsley, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if desired.

  • Serve warm and enjoy!

Keyword Lemon Chicken Orzo

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