Description

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy orzo pasta, brightened by zesty lemon and rich Parmesan cheese. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering a comforting texture and vibrant flavors that will impress family and friends alike. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s an easy yet sophisticated meal that brings warmth to your dining table. Elevate your dinner experience with this unbeatable recipe that promises to satisfy every palate.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté chicken until golden and cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion; cook until soft (about 3 minutes). Stir in garlic and orzo; toast for 1 to 2 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Add heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Return chicken to the skillet. Cook uncovered for about 10 to 12 minutes until orzo is tender and sauce thickens.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning as needed before serving warm.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 520
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 120mg