Print

7 Amazing Creamy Lemon Orzo with Chicken Fixes

Creamy Lemon Orzo with Chicken

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This recipe delivers a bright, refreshing, and creamy lemon orzo dish featuring tender, juicy chicken pieces cooked right in the skillet. It is a straightforward comfort meal that sings with citrus flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch 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
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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 the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the orzo pasta. Toast the orzo for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-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.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Noah suggests using low-sodium chicken broth to better control the final salt level.
  • For an extra bright flavor, add a splash of dry white wine after toasting the orzo, letting it cook off before adding the broth.
  • If your sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition