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One-Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe (30 Minutes) – Easy Mediterranean Skillet Dinner

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Lemon Chicken Orzo is a quick and easy one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and bright lemon flavors. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is made with simple ingredients like garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Chicken:
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Orzo:
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • For Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove.
  2. Add remaining oil and garlic to skillet. Sauté 30 seconds. Add orzo and toast 1 minute.
  3. Pour in chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Return chicken to skillet. Cover and cook 10–12 minutes until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through.
  5. Stir in lemon juice, butter, Parmesan, and spinach. Let spinach wilt.
  6. Remove from heat. Rest briefly, then garnish with parsley, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs give a juicier result.
  • Add a splash of cream for extra richness if desired.
  • Best served immediately while creamy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dinner.lillyrecipes.com/one-pot-creamy-lemon-chicken-orzo-recipe-30-minutes-easy-mediterranean-skillet-dinner/