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1 Amazing Creamy Lemon Orzo with Chicken

Creamy Lemon Orzo with Chicken

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Make a bright and refreshing Creamy Lemon Orzo with Chicken. This one-pan dish delivers tender pasta and juicy chicken in a zesty, comforting sauce. It is perfect for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 1 minute.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, 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 juice, and lemon zest. Cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken.
  • You can easily substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts.
  • If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more broth or water until you reach your desired creaminess.

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