Get ready for a burst of sunshine in a bowl with this Lemon Chicken Orzo! Imagine tender chicken and orzo pasta cooked in a flavorful lemon broth, with fresh spinach and a sprinkle of Parmesan. This dish is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. Trust me, you’re going to love how bright and satisfying this is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bright and Flavorful: The lemon and herb combination creates a refreshing and delicious taste.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with this easy one-pan meal.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Healthy and Satisfying: A balanced meal with lean protein, vegetables, and pasta.

lemon chicken orzo

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Lemon Chicken Orzo:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Provides a lean and tender protein.
  • Dried Basil, Oregano, and Paprika: Adds a blend of aromatic herbs and spices.
  • Salt and Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken, adding richness.
  • Butter: Adds flavor and richness to the shallot and garlic sauté.
  • Shallots: Adds a mild onion flavor.
  • Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor.
  • Orzo Pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides a flavorful base for the orzo.
  • Lemon Juice and Zest: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor.
  • Baby Spinach: Adds freshness and nutrients.
  • Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Cube the chicken and season with basil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until mostly cooked through. Remove from the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Add butter, shallots, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant. Add orzo pasta and toast until golden brown.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked through.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Spinach

Add the cooked chicken and spinach to the skillet. Stir and cook until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with lemon slices and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Cook the orzo until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
  • Use Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh ingredients provide the best flavor.
  • Sauté Shallots and Garlic Until Fragrant: This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as needed.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Orzo

  • As a Main Course: A complete and satisfying meal on its own.
  • With a Side Salad: Add a light salad for extra freshness.
  • With Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
  • Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Add chopped parsley or dill for extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

  • Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or risoni.

2. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

  • Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but ensure it is thawed and drained well.

3. Can I add other vegetables?

  • Yes, you can add vegetables like asparagus, peas, or bell peppers.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

  • Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Enjoy this vibrant and delicious Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe!

Print
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Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe

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  • Author: Stacy Corbo
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
Print Recipe

Description

This Lemon Chicken Orzo is a bright and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Tender chicken pieces are seasoned with aromatic herbs, pan-seared to perfection, and then cooked with orzo pasta in a lemony chicken broth. Fresh spinach is added for a pop of color and nutrition, making this dish a delicious and satisfying meal for the whole family.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 shallots, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
  • Shredded Parmesan cheese, for garnish
  • Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season Chicken:
    1. Cube the chicken breast into 1 ½ to 2-inch pieces.
    2. In a bowl, evenly coat the chicken with the dried basil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Sear Chicken:
    1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until mostly cooked through.
    3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Shallots and Garlic:
    1. Add the butter, minced shallots, and minced garlic to the skillet.
    2. Sauté for 2 minutes, until the shallots are softened and the garlic is fragrant.
  4. Toast Orzo:
    1. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet.
    2. Stir continuously and toss until evenly toasted and lightly golden brown.
  5. Cook Orzo:
    1. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
    2. Reduce the heat to medium and stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the skillet.
    3. Cook until the orzo is cooked through and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Add Chicken and Spinach:
    1. Add the cooked chicken and chopped baby spinach to the skillet.
    2. Stir and continue to cook until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is fully cooked.
  7. Garnish and Serve:
    1. Garnish with lemon slices and shredded Parmesan cheese.
    2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of lemon juice and lemon zest to your preference.
  • You can use other types of pasta, such as farfalle or penne.
  • Add other vegetables like asparagus, peas, or bell peppers for variety.
  • For a creamier dish, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Serving
  • Calories: 450kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

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Hi, I’m Stacy Corbo! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

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