Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo
This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo is bright, comforting, and full of fresh, zesty flavor. Tender chicken and delicate orzo pasta are coated in a luscious, lemon-infused cream sauce that’s silky and satisfying. It’s an easy, weeknight-friendly meal that feels both elegant and cozy.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite size pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup fresh spinach or baby kale
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- In the same pan, add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
- Add orzo to the pan and stir to coat in oil and aromatics.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most liquid is absorbed and orzo is tender.
Step 4: Add Cream, Cheese, and Lemon
- Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the pan.
- Stir until creamy and heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Optional Greens
- If using spinach or kale, stir in now until just wilted.
Step 6: Serve
- Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender meat.
- Fresh lemon juice gives the best bright flavor; bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
- Orzo cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to keep a slightly firm texture.
- Stir in cream or Greek yogurt off the heat to prevent curdling.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra freshness.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 420 kcal,Carbohydrates: 35 g,
Fiber: 3 g,
Sugars: 3 g,
Protein: 28 g,
Fat: 18 g,
Saturated Fat: 7 g,
Cholesterol: 85 mg,
Sodium: 550 mg,
Potassium: 450 mg,
Calcium: 120 mg,
Iron: 2.5 mg