Go Back
lemon orzo

ONE-POT CHICKEN LEMON ORZO

When I want something that’s comforting without feeling too heavy, this creamy lemon garlic chicken orzo is one of my favorite meals to make. Tender chicken, a bright lemony sauce, plenty of garlic, and perfectly cooked orzo come together in one pan for a dinner that’s fresh, satisfying, and simple enough for any night of the week.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • 1 chicken breast,, sliced in half
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 garlic cloves,, minced
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2 1/4 cup vegetable stock
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • juice of half a lemon + zest,, optional
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
  • parmesan
  • spinach,, optional

Method
 

  1. Add oil to the chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic, onion and paprika.
  2. Cook chicken in a pan over medium heat with oil until it’s golden brown (3-5 mins per side). Transfer to a baking pan lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F/ 180°C for 7-10mins.
  3. In the same pan, add garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
  4. Stir in the orzo and toast for a minute.
  5. Stir in the stock, cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Lower the temperature and stir in the cream, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), oregano, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan. Mix until creamy.
  7. Add spinach and stir until it wilts.