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homemade One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo photo
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One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

A bright, easy one-pan meal of lemony orzo tossed with tender chicken and spinach.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cubed into 1½–2 inch pieces
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 shallots shallots minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 2 cups baby spinach chopped
  • shredded Parmesan cheese for garnish, to taste

Instructions

  • Cut the chicken into 1½–2 inch cubes and toss with dried basil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, turning occasionally, until mostly cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • Add the butter to the skillet, then sauté the minced shallots and garlic for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the orzo to the skillet and stir constantly until the orzo is evenly toasted and lightly golden, about 2–3 minutes.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Reduce heat to medium, stir, and simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 10–15 minutes.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet and add the chopped spinach. Stir and cook until the chicken is fully cooked through and the spinach is wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
  • Serve topped with shredded Parmesan cheese and lemon slices if desired.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon

Notes

  • Cube chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
  • Toast the orzo until lightly golden for better flavor.
  • Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.
  • Add Parmesan to taste when serving.