Go Back
–+ servings
Plate full of lemon chicken orzo on a table.
Print

Lemon Chicken and Orzo

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo is a quick one-pan dinner made with tender chicken, cheesy orzo, fresh spinach, and bright lemon flavor. It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 590kcal

Equipment

  • large skillet with lid
  • Cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning divided
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil divided
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 10 ounces chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups spinach
  • ½ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
  • The juice of one lemon

Instructions

  • In a large bowl add the chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, garlic powder, 1 tbsp vegetable oil and 1 tbsp of lemon juice.
  • Stir around until everything is very well coated.
  • In a large skillet add the remaining vegetable oil and set to a medium high heat.
  • Add the chicken once the oil is hot and sear on each side for 6-7 minutes, or until both sides are browned and cooked through.
  • Once cooked and browned remove from the pan and set aside.
  • Add the butter, red bell pepper, onion, garlic and Italian seasoning. stir around for 1-2 minutes.
  • Add the orzo and stir around for another 1-2 minutes.
  • Add the chicken broth and stir, bring to a boil and then reduce to a low simmer.
  • Cover and cook on low for 12-14 minutes.
  • Once done add the spinach, heavy cream and Parmesan and stir.
  • Squeeze the juice of a lemon all over and stir once more.
  • Slice the chicken and add on top of the orzo, top with parsley and lemon slices! (Optional)
  • Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Store in a airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days
  • You can use whatever colored bell peppers you prefer.
  • You can add red pepper flakes for spice!
  • You do not have to top with parsley and lemon slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 590kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 140mg | Sodium: 1203mg | Potassium: 775mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 2883IU | Vitamin C: 47mg | Calcium: 237mg | Iron: 2mg