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One-Pan Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Orzo: 30-Minute Weeknight Dinner

A white bowl filled with creamy lemon chicken orzo pasta mixed with spinach and topped with fresh parsley.
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Create a restaurant-quality meal with this easy one-pan creamy lemon chicken orzo. This recipe delivers tender chicken and rich, zesty orzo in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for quick weeknight dinners with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the dry orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
  8. If using, stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving your easy lemon chicken orzo.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
  • If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or water until you reach your preferred creamy consistency.
  • This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/creamy-lemon-chicken-orzo-recipe/