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One-Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet

Close-up of creamy lemon chicken orzo mixed with spinach and topped with browned chicken pieces.
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Make this bright, comforting, and creamy lemon chicken orzo in one pot. It is ready in 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or fat-free heavy cream)
  • 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and mostly cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Add the butter to the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  6. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, about 1 minute.
  9. Stir in the feta cheese, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • This recipe is a great alternative to using meal planning services when you need a quick, satisfying dinner.
  • For extra flavor, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • If the orzo seems too thick before it is fully cooked, add a splash more broth or water.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/lemon-chicken-orzo/