Print

One-Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo

Print Recipe

A zesty, comforting one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, creamy orzo, and bright lemon flavors—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and oregano, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. Stir in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
  5. Stir in the cream, lemon juice and zest, Parmesan cheese, and cooked chicken. Simmer for 2-3 more minutes until creamy.
  6. If using, fold in spinach until wilted.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
  • Adjust lemon to taste for more or less zing.
  • Add more broth or cream if you prefer it saucier.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken orzo, one-pot meal, easy dinner, creamy orzo, Mediterranean chicken

Find it online: https://zesticook.com/one-pot-lemon-chicken-orzo/