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One-Pan Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken and Orzo

Close-up of creamy chicken pieces served over lemon orzo pasta, garnished with parsley and zest.
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Create a satisfying weeknight dinner with this simple, one-pan creamy lemon garlic chicken and orzo. This recipe delivers bright flavor and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook gently until the sauce is creamy and heated through, about 2 minutes. Do not boil.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken sausage for the chicken breasts for a different flavor profile.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • This dish is excellent served with roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/one-pan-creamy-lemon-garlic-chicken-orzo/