Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta
Ingredients
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
divided
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
cut into bite sized pieces
- salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 cloves garlic
minced
- 2 1/4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh asparagus cut into 1" pieces
- 3 to 5 ounces spinach
or kale
- zest and juice from one lemon
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
plus more for serving
Directions
- 1
Heat 2 teaspoons of the olive oil in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot add in the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is thoroughly cooked then remove it from the skillet onto a plate.
- 2
Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil to the skillet then add in the onion. Sauté for one minute or until the onion starts to soften.
- 3
Add in the orzo and garlic and sauté for about a minute. Pour in the chicken broth, stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
- 4
Once boiling, cover with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for approximately 5 minutes and then add the asparagus. Simmer covered for an additional 5 minutes, then add the spinach. Cook for one minute or until spinach is wilted. Remove the lid and if there is any excess liquid remaining continue to cook uncovered for another minute.
- 5
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice and Parmesan cheese until everything is combined. Garnish with more Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 72 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a vibrant, comforting meal that comes together quickly on a busy weeknight? This one-pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta delivers bright, zesty flavors with minimal cleanup, perfect for a satisfying dinner that feels both fresh and indulgent.
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and efficiency. Cooking everything in a single pot means less time scrubbing dishes, while the orzo pasta absorbs all the rich low sodium chicken broth and lemon essence, creating a wonderfully flavorful and creamy base. It's thoughtfully designed to be on your table in under 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice when time is short but you still want something genuinely delicious.
Prepare for a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that delights the palate. You'll find incredibly tender, bite-sized boneless skinless chicken pieces nestled among creamy, perfectly cooked orzo, which has absorbed all the rich chicken broth and bright lemon essence. The crisp-tender asparagus adds a delicate crunch and verdant color to each bite, while the wilted spinach or kale contributes earthy, fresh notes, balancing the richness. Each spoonful is a comforting yet distinctly fresh experience, finishing with the salty depth of grated Parmesan cheese. This complete meal is both satisfying and light, making it a versatile choice for any season.
Customization & Variations
- Feel free to swap spinach for kale if you prefer its slightly sturdier texture and earthier flavor—the recipe offers both as excellent options to use.
- Adjust the amount of lemon zest and juice to your personal taste; some enjoy a more pronounced citrus punch, while others prefer a subtle hint.
- While 1/2 cup of Parmesan is incorporated during cooking, don't forget to serve with extra on top for an added layer of salty, nutty goodness.
This Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta is a perfect centerpiece for a bustling weeknight dinner, offering a complete and wholesome meal without fuss. Serve it hot, topped with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, for a truly delightful experience.