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One-Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo

A white bowl filled with creamy lemon chicken orzo, topped with browned chicken pieces and bright lemon zest.
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Make this quick, creamy lemon chicken orzo in one pot for a flavorful weeknight dinner ready in 30 minutes. It balances bright lemon zest with comforting, savory chicken and pasta.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound 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 garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1.5 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1 cup fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep 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 1-2 minutes, 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 of the pan.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Cover the skillet 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. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy.
  8. If using, stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts. Check seasoning and add more salt or pepper if needed.
  9. Serve immediately. This recipe is a great alternative to relying on meal planning services.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, reduce the heavy cream or substitute with milk.
  • If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more fresh lemon juice at the end.
  • This dish reheats well, but you may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore creaminess.
  • If you are looking into meal planning, this quick recipe fits well into a busy schedule.

Nutrition

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