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Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo

Creamy lemon garlic chicken orzo pasta recipe in a rustic kitchen setting.
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A vibrant one-pan meal featuring tender chicken and orzo pasta simmered in a fragrant, citrus-kissed broth. Finished with fresh spinach, Parmesan, and cream for a cozy, family-style dinner that feels both fresh and comforting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup dry white wine or more broth
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1 cup fresh baby spinach
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 0.25 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil and butter in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden. Remove to a plate.
  2. In the same pot, add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add dry orzo to the pot. Toast, stirring, for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and nutty.
  4. Pour in white wine to deglaze, scraping up browned bits. Add chicken broth, lemon zest, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Nestle seared chicken back into the pot. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  6. Remove pot from heat. Stir in fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and lemon juice until spinach wilts and sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes to allow sauce to thicken. Shred or slice chicken and stir back through or serve on top. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Notes

For a lighter version, use chicken breasts and swap cream for Greek yogurt. Add lemon juice off heat to preserve brightness. Leftovers store well for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.stacksipsnack.com/lemon-garlic-chicken-orzo/