This Lemon Chicken and Orzo dish is a bright and tasty meal that’s super quick to whip up! Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with tender orzo and zesty lemon, making each bite a delight.
I love how refreshing it tastes, especially with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. It’s like a little sunshine on my plate! 🍋 Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta adds a fun texture. If you’re gluten-free, you can swap it for rice or gluten-free pasta. I’ve tried both, and they still work great!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a go-to. If you prefer, thighs offer a richer flavor. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian version!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too—use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely, but frozen spinach can be a comforting alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well first.
Dill: If dill isn’t your favorite or if it’s hard to find, fresh basil or oregano could make a nice swap. They bring their own unique flavor to the dish!
How Do I Cook the Orzo Properly?
Cooking orzo isn’t tricky, but there are a few tips to make it turn out perfectly. Start by bringing your chicken broth to a boil; this will give the orzo a nice flavor as it cooks.
- Once boiling, add the orzo, then reduce the heat to medium-low to simmer. This helps prevent sticking.
- Stir occasionally to keep it from clumping. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until tender but not mushy.
- Keep an eye on the liquid—if it absorbs quickly, it’s okay to add a splash more broth or water.
Following these steps will help you achieve a creamy, flavorful orzo that complements the chicken beautifully!
How to Make Lemon Chicken and Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small carrot, finely diced (optional)
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time. It’s a quick, refreshing meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the lemon zest. This will infuse some fantastic flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and diced carrot (if you’re using it). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the carrot becomes slightly tender. Be sure not to let the garlic burn; you want it golden, not brown!
4. Cook the Orzo:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and let it come to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook while stirring occasionally for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
5. Add Greens and Flavor:
Once the orzo is cooked, gently stir in the chopped spinach, parsley, dill (if you’re using it), lemon juice, and the remaining lemon zest. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until the spinach has wilted and everything is combined beautifully!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Everything should be well mixes at this point!
7. Serve:
Dish out the Lemon Chicken and Orzo into serving bowls. For a bright finishing touch, garnish with fresh lemon slices. Enjoy every delicious bite of this fresh and hearty dish!
Bon appétit! Your refreshing and satisfying Lemon Chicken and Orzo is ready to be enjoyed!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Orzo?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for orzo! However, keep in mind that brown rice usually requires more cooking time—about 25-30 minutes. You may need to add a little extra broth or water as it cooks to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
Can This Recipe Be Made in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and orzo mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can use a microwave or warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them finely and sauté them at the same time as the garlic to ensure they’re tender before adding the orzo.
