Lemon Chicken Orzo
Lemon Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and the refreshing brightness of lemon. This one-pot meal is perfect for both busy weeknights and elegant dinner parties, offering a burst of flavor that will impress family and friends. With its vibrant colors and comforting aroma, Lemon Chicken Orzo creates a warm atmosphere at any dining table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 fresh lemons (juiced and zested)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add orzo and enough chicken broth to cover; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally until orzo is al dente (about 10 minutes).
- Return chicken to the skillet along with lemon juice and zest; stir gently.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Serve topped with Parmesan cheese and any remaining sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: - For added nutrition, substitute regular orzo with whole grain or quinoa. - Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat with a splash of broth.