Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

Bright, zesty, and irresistibly comforting, this Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta combines tender chicken, delicate orzo, fresh herbs, and a burst of citrus in every bite. A quick and flavorful one-pan dinner perfect for busy weeknights or easy entertaining.

Course dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Keyword chicken, one dish, orzo, stovetop

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Servings servings

Calories 584kcal

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic minced
1 cup orzo - uncooked
2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup lemon juice - fresh - about 1–2 lemons
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup Parmesan cheese - freshly grated
1 cup baby spinach optional

Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden and cooked through, then transfer it to a plate and set aside.
In the same pan, add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. Stir in the orzo and let it toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, cream, and Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Return the chicken to the pan and add the spinach, if using. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring, until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
Give it a taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed, then finish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Notes

If you’d like to lighten things up, swap the cream for milk or even evaporated milk.
Want a little kick? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, or toss in capers for an extra pop of lemony flavor.
Keep in mind that lemon can enhance saltiness, so give the pasta a taste before adding more salt.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy within three days.

Nutrition