Lemon Basil Orzo with Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Basil Orzo with Chicken is a light and refreshing dish that combines the bright flavors of lemon and basil with tender chicken and perfectly cooked orzo. The zesty lemon and aromatic basil elevate this simple yet flavorful dish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It’s a delightful, one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh, summery flavors.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dish:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)

For the Marinade (optional for extra flavor):

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

For the Chicken:

1. If marinating, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the skillet and let them rest before slicing into thin strips.

For the Orzo:

1. Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss it in the garlic oil for a minute or two.
3. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and butter (if using), and toss everything together. Add a little reserved pasta water if needed to help loosen the mixture.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

To Serve:

1. Serve the orzo mixture in bowls or on plates. Top with the sliced chicken and garnish with Parmesan cheese (if desired).
2. Serve immediately, and enjoy the light, citrusy flavors!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes (for marinade and prep)
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to make it even more vibrant.
• For a spicier twist, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the dish before serving.
• Substitute chicken for shrimp or grilled tofu to make the dish seafood or vegetarian.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free orzo for a healthier or allergy-friendly version.
• For a creamier version, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to refresh the dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the orzo with another small pasta like farfalle, penne, or fusilli if you prefer.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and orzo in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge, and combine them when you’re ready to serve.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Orzo is typically made from wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can substitute gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta if needed.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, skip the chicken and add extra vegetables or even chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Lemon Basil Orzo with Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil makes it light yet satisfying, while the orzo adds a comforting texture to the meal. It’s an easy-to-make, fresh dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your weekly dinner rotation!

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