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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo

A comforting, creamy, and zesty one-pan dish made with tender chicken, orzo pasta, garlic, lemon zest, and a rich, velvety sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: chicken, Dinner
Cuisine: American, Italian and Mediterranean flavors
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into chunks
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Citrus zester

Method
 

  1. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken chunks with salt and pepper, then sear for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  3. Toast Orzo & Simmer: Stir in the orzo and let it toast for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Make it Creamy: Once the orzo is almost cooked, stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and the seared chicken. Cook for another 5–6 minutes, until everything is creamy and well combined.
  5. Finish & Serve: Stir in parmesan cheese. Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with parsley and serving warm.

Notes

  • For extra tang, add a few thin lemon slices while simmering.
  • Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Great with steamed asparagus or green beans on the side.
Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo
Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo