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One-Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Ready in 30 Minutes

Close-up of creamy lemon chicken orzo pasta topped with fresh parsley and lemon zest in a white bowl.
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Make this quick, creamy lemon chicken orzo in one pot for an easy weeknight dinner. It combines tender chicken, bright lemon flavor, and comforting orzo pasta with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth (plus more as needed)
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1 cup fresh spinach or asparagus pieces

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and smoked paprika.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir well to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. If using spinach or asparagus, stir them in during the last 2 minutes of cooking until wilted or tender-crisp.
  8. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until the sauce is creamy.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of water when cooking the orzo.
  • If the dish becomes too thick while simmering, add broth, a quarter cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  • You can substitute feta cheese for Parmesan for a tangier, Greek-inspired flavor.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; add a splash of broth when reheating to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dishicious.com/lemon-chicken-orzo/