Description
Lemon Chicken and Orzo is a flavorful and comforting one-pan dish featuring tender chicken breast cubes cooked with orzo pasta in a zesty lemon-infused broth. Enhanced with Parmesan cheese, butter, and aromatic basil, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 16 ounces orzo
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup salted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast into 1-inch cubes for uniform cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken begins to brown.
- Add liquids and orzo: Pour in 4 cups chicken broth, 1/4 cup lemon juice, then add 16 ounces orzo and 2 tablespoons dried basil. Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the orzo: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook the orzo until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This usually takes about 10 minutes depending on orzo brand.
- Finish the dish: Turn off heat, then stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup salted butter until completely melted and creamy. Serve hot for best flavor.
Notes
- Add vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans during the last few minutes of orzo cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.
- For delicate vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, stir them in after turning off the heat to let them wilt gently.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor results.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Ensure the skillet is large and deep enough to hold all ingredients comfortably to avoid spills while boiling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
