Description
A bright and comforting one-pan lemon chicken and orzo dish where tender chicken cooks together with orzo in a flavorful broth infused with garlic and lemon. The result is a fresh, hearty meal with a slightly creamy texture and vibrant citrus flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken until golden on both sides and mostly cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Add the orzo and stir for about 1 minute to lightly toast it.
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, then stir in the Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Return the chicken to the pan and cook until the orzo becomes tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and grated parmesan cheese.
- Cook briefly until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes slightly creamy.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve warm.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for extra juiciness and flavor.
- Cooking the orzo in the same pan allows it to absorb the chicken juices and broth for more flavor.
- Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra texture.
- Feta cheese can be used instead of parmesan for a tangy Mediterranean twist.
- For a dairy-free version, simply omit the parmesan cheese.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
