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The Ultimate Guide to Lemon Chicken Orzo: A Flavorful Family Delight

Lemon Chicken Orzo
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A creamy, lemony orzo dish with tender chicken, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Quick enough for weeknights but elegant enough for company!

  • Author: ranime
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 30 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 shallot, finely diced
  • 1 1/2 cups (300g) orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional Garnish:
  • Lemon slices
  • Extra Parmesan
  • Red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Sear Chicken: Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken with salt/pepper and cook until golden (5-6 mins). Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In same skillet, cook shallot 2 mins until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 secs until fragrant.
  3. Toast Orzo: Add orzo and stir to coat in oil. Cook 2 mins until lightly toasted.
  4. Simmer: Pour in broth and cream. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cover and cook 10 mins, stirring occasionally.
  5. Finish: Stir in chicken, lemon juice/zest, Parmesan, and spinach. Cook 2 mins until spinach wilts.
  6. Serve: Mix in herbs. Garnish with lemon, extra cheese, and pepper flakes.

Notes

  • One-pot tip: Use a deep skillet or Dutch oven
  • Lighter option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream
  • Make ahead: Reheats well with splash of broth
  • Vegetarian version: Omit chicken, use veggie broth

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesfood.org/lemon-chicken-orzo-recipe/