Lemon Chicken Orzo is a bright and fresh dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy orzo pasta. Toss in some zesty lemon and vibrant veggies, and you have a winner!
This meal is like a sunny hug on a plate! I love making it when I need a little pick-me-up. It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for any weeknight dinner with the family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for chicken breasts. You could also use shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian twist.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a nice texture to the dish. If you don’t have orzo, you can swap it with rice or any small pasta like ditalini or couscous. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrients. If it’s not available, kale or frozen spinach works too. Just make sure to thaw the frozen version and squeeze out excess water before adding.
Lemon: The zest and juice of lemon bring brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemon, a splash of bottled lemon juice can substitute, but fresh is always better for flavor.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?
The chicken is the star, and cooking it well is crucial. Start by seasoning it well with salt, pepper, and oregano for flavor. Cooking on medium-high heat helps create that lovely golden crust.
- Heat the oil until it’s hot but not smoking before adding chicken.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve nice browning on all sides.
- Using a meat thermometer, check for doneness—165°F (75°C) ensures it’s cooked through.
How Can I Cook Orzo to Perfection?
Cooking the orzo right helps create a creamy texture. After toasting it lightly in the skillet, it absorbs flavors from the broth beautifully.
- Remember to stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Keep an eye on the liquid—if it looks too thick, add a little more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
By focusing on cooking the chicken perfectly and mastering the orzo, you’ll create a delightful dish that’s full of flavor! Enjoy your Lemon Chicken Orzo!
How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
For the Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Lemon Chicken Orzo dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight while still feeling special and comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and oregano. This will infuse all that flavorful goodness right into the meat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onion and cook until soft and translucent, which should take around 3 minutes.
4. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Keep stirring to prevent it from burning!
5. Toast the Orzo:
Stir in the orzo pasta and let it toast lightly for about 1-2 minutes. This will deepen its flavor!
6. Combine with Broth and Lemon:
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then add the lemon zest. Bring everything to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed, typically about 8-10 minutes.
7. Add the Veggies:
Once the orzo is cooked, gently stir in the cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook for another 2 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly soft.
8. Finish with Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until it’s melted and evenly mixed in. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
9. Slice and Serve:
Slice the rested chicken and lay it over the orzo. It’s looking delicious already!
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your Lemon Chicken Orzo with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices if you’re using them. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful meal!
This dish is a wonderful blend of flavors that will surely brighten up your table. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the quick method of placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo Pasta?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes such as ditalini or even rice. Just be aware that cooking times may differ, so keep an eye on the texture while it cooks!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
