Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, the Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe is a great choice. It combines tender chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh spinach, all brought together with a zesty lemon flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can create a creamy dish that’s perfect for busy nights. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have. Let’s explore how to make this flavorful dish and why it’s a favorite for many.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, this Lemon Chicken Orzo recipe stands out as a fantastic choice. You’ll love how it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days. The steps are simple and easy to follow, so you won’t feel overwhelmed. This dish is also great for meal prep; you can refrigerate individual portions for up to three days. The creamy consistency, thanks to heavy cream, paired with fresh lemon juice creates a delightful flavor. Plus, the orzo pasta absorbs all those tasty flavors. If you want to mix it up, feel free to add your favorite vegetables and herbs for extra nutrition and taste. Versatile and easily adaptable, enjoy a balanced meal that’s quick and satisfying!

History

Lemon Chicken Orzo has a fascinating history that reflects its Mediterranean roots and culinary evolution. This dish is derived from Bon Appetit’s recipe for Lemony Chicken and Orzo Soup, showcasing a blend of Mediterranean flavors. You’ll notice it draws inspiration from classic chicken noodle soup, enhanced with orzo and a bright lemon touch. Fresh herbs like dill and parsley elevate its taste, while the addition of vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions adds texture. The combination of Bon Appetit and Panera Bread’s versions has made this soup a beloved family favorite. Variations have emerged, including creamy versions with cheese. The use of orzo pasta, a traditional Greek ingredient, and the incorporation of olive oil and lemon showcase its cultural depth.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 2 medium chicken breasts (pounded to 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– Salt
– Pepper
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– ¾ cup heavy cream
– ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
– 1 small yellow onion (small-diced)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 cups baby spinach (packed)
– 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced)
– Unsalted butter
– Olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Boneless skinless chicken breast is recommended for this dish to ensure a tender result.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of unsalted butter and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

After the orzo has cooked and absorbed most of the broth, stir in the heavy cream and baby spinach.

Cook until the spinach has wilted and the mixture is creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

Finally, add the lemon zest and juice to taste, stirring well to combine.

Slice the rested chicken and serve it over the creamy orzo, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.

For best results, remember to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to guarantee they cook uniformly.

While simmering the orzo, stir it frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Using freshly squeezed lemon juice will give the dish a vibrant flavor, so don’t skip that step!

If you have leftovers, this dish can be reheated gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Chicken Orzo!

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your cooking experience with Lemon Chicken Orzo, remember that this dish isn’t just about the flavors but also about the techniques that make it successful.

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness guarantees it cooks uniformly, while searing it first helps prevent overcooking. Keep an eye on the orzo; checking for doneness early can stop it from becoming mushy. This one-pot recipe not only saves time but also makes cleanup easier. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or herbs for extra flavor. Additionally, using freshly grated mozzarella will enhance the creaminess and overall texture of the dish.

Finally, letting the chicken rest before slicing will keep it juicy. With these tips, you’ll create a delicious, vibrant meal that’s perfect for any busy weeknight.

FAQ

What common questions do people have about making Lemon Chicken Orzo? One frequent question is about cooking times. Typically, preparation takes 10-15 minutes, and cooking can range from 30 to 35 minutes.

You might wonder about serving sizes; most recipes serve about four people. When it comes to ingredients, chicken can be used in either breast or thigh form. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition. Additionally, this dish is a good source of protein, providing 36% of your Daily Value per serving.

Some recipes include cream for richness, while others stick with broth. If you’re curious about the dish’s nutritional value, a serving usually contains around 335 calories, with a good mix of protein, fats, and carbs.

Finally, know that mixing in cheese and herbs at the end enhances flavor.