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Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe

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4.3 from 12 reviews

A bright and comforting Lemon Chicken Orzo recipe featuring tender seared chicken breasts served over creamy, lemon-infused orzo pasta with spinach and Parmesan cheese. This easy stovetop dish combines savory herbs, garlic, and fresh lemon zest for a flavorful weeknight meal ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
  • 1 ¼ teaspoon salt (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

Orzo and Vegetables

  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups baby spinach

Finishing Ingredients

  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)

Instructions

  1. Season and Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with ¾ teaspoon of salt, Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 8-10 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest before slicing.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Toast Orzo: Lower the skillet heat to medium-low. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the uncooked orzo and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  3. Simmer Orzo in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth along with the remaining ½ teaspoon salt, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed.
  4. Add Spinach and Milk: Stir in the baby spinach and whole milk into the orzo. Continue stirring until the milk is mostly absorbed, creating a creamy texture.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Lemon: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Gradually add the lemon juice, stirring gently to combine all the flavors evenly.
  6. Serve: Arrange the sliced chicken breasts on top of the creamy lemon orzo in the skillet or on serving plates and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
  • Adjust lemon juice to taste for more or less tartness.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
  • Cooking times may vary based on chicken breast thickness; ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Vegetables like peas or asparagus can be added for extra texture and nutrition.

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