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Easy One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo photo

One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

A bright, easy one-pan meal of tender lemony chicken and toasted orzo finished with spinach and Parmesan.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 people

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts 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

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Cut the chicken into 1½–2 inch cubes and toss with the dried basil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until mostly cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced shallots and garlic for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  4. Add the orzo to the skillet and stir continuously for a few minutes until the orzo is evenly toasted and light golden.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to medium, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 10–15 minutes.
  6. Return the cooked 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.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with shredded Parmesan cheese and lemon slices if desired.

Notes

  • Cube chicken uniformly for even cooking.
  • Toast the orzo until golden for better flavor.
  • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the skillet.
  • Adjust salt to taste, especially if using salty broth.