lemon chicken with orzo recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best lemon chicken with orzo recipe

I’ve been making lemon chicken with orzo for years, and it’s still a family favorite. This recipe is a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you. The dish has its roots in Greek cuisine, where orzo is a staple grain.

When cooked with chicken, lemons, and herbs, it creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and comforting. The key to this recipe is the way the ingredients come together – the tangy lemon juice, the savory chicken, and the nutty orzo all work in harmony to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – this dish is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the chicken and orzo. My kids love helping me prepare this recipe because they can get involved with measuring out ingredients and stirring the pot. And when we’re all done, we enjoy it together as a family.

This recipe is also great for meal prep because it reheats beautifully and can be served with a variety of sides. In fact, I often make a big batch on Sunday evening so we have leftovers throughout the week. And when I do make it on my own (without any help from my kids), I find that I can relax and focus on other tasks while the dish cooks away in the oven.

It’s one of those recipes that just feels like home cooking to me.

Lemon Chicken with Orzo

4.8 from 1914 votes

A delightful dish featuring tender chicken breast in a zesty lemon sauce, served over fluffy orzo pasta. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
salt
black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 tbsp butter

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp water
fresh parsley, chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4Reduce heat to medium, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
5Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
6While the chicken is cooking, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan.
7Add the orzo and reduce heat to low.
8Cover and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the broth is absorbed.
9Stir in the butter and set aside.
10In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, cornstarch, and water.
11Pour the mixture into the skillet with the chicken.
12Stir well to combine, and cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
13If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a little water.
14Divide the cooked orzo among four plates.
15Top each serving with a chicken breast and spoon the lemon cream sauce over the top.
16Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

Skillet with lid
Saucepan
Mixing bowl
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the skillet for added nutrition.

This lemon chicken with orzo recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick and easy meal for your family.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it reheats – so you can make it ahead of time and serve it hot whenever you’re ready.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Chicken with Orzo

1. What is orzo?

Orzo is a type of pasta made from wheat flour.

2. Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts if you prefer – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. How do I store leftover lemon chicken with orzo?

You can store leftover lemon chicken with orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze this recipe – simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

5. What are some good side dishes to serve with lemon chicken with orzo?

Some good side dishes include roasted vegetables, garlic bread, and a simple green salad.

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