Description
This luscious Lemon Chicken Orzo combines tender chicken breasts with creamy, lemony orzo pasta and fresh spinach, creating a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for any weeknight.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken:
- 2 medium chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Orzo Pasta:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (plus more to taste)
- 2 cups baby spinach (packed)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Aromatics:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Lemon and Garnish:
- 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced, plus more to taste)
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Chopped Italian parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare and Cook Chicken: Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Sauté Aromatics and Cook Orzo: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until softened. Add garlic and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in orzo pasta and cook for 2 minutes. Add chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12 minutes.
- Finish the Orzo: Once orzo is tender, stir in heavy cream, spinach, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice to taste. Mix until creamy and spinach is wilted.
- Serve: Arrange sliced chicken over the creamy orzo. Garnish with lemon slices and parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes after cooking to retain juices and ensure tenderness.
- Adjust the amount of heavy cream and lemon juice to taste for creaminess and brightness.
