One Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo

This One Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo is a quick, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, creamy orzo, and a burst of fresh lemon creates a dish that is both comforting and refreshing. Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze and ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy cleanup: Only one pot is needed to prepare the entire meal.
• Bright and flavorful: Lemon adds a refreshing tang that pairs perfectly with the chicken and orzo.
• Quick to make: Ideal for weeknights, as it comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
• Family-friendly: A satisfying dish that both kids and adults will love.

Ingredients

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

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Orzo pasta
• Lemon juice and zest
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Olive oil
• Spinach (optional)
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Stir in the orzo, ensuring it’s coated in the oil.
5. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and let it cook until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Stir in spinach and Parmesan if desired. Adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth.
• Herbs: Add thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Veggie-packed: Include diced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.
• Cheesy: Mix in feta or goat cheese for extra creaminess.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent the orzo from drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini de pepe work well, but cooking times may vary.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?

Substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or rice alternative.

3. What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or water with a bouillon cube can be used as substitutes.

4. Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended as orzo can become mushy, but the chicken can be frozen separately.

6. How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir occasionally while cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot.

7. What type of lemon should I use?

Fresh lemons are best for both juice and zest to achieve a bright flavor.

8. Can I make it dairy-free?

Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

9. What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

10. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but cook the orzo separately and stir it in at the end to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

One Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Its bright, tangy profile makes it a standout meal for any occasion, while the one-pot method ensures minimal effort and cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

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