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Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta Skillet

Close-up of bright lemon chicken orzo pasta with chicken pieces and fresh parsley in a dark skillet.
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Make this bright and flavorful Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta for a simple, satisfying weeknight dinner. This recipe delivers creamy texture and fresh lemon taste using common ingredients.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Add the dry orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh parsley. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed before serving.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
  • You can add 1 cup of fresh spinach during the last 2 minutes of cooking for extra greens.
  • This dish is best served immediately while the orzo is creamy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delicerecipe.com/lemon-chicken-orzo-pasta-recipe/