Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo (30-Minutes)

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!

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.