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Lemon Chicken Orzo

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650
A flavorful and creamy lemon chicken orzo dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with fresh herbs and spinach.

Ingredients

Protein

  • 2 medium chicken breasts (pounded to 0.5 inch thick)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (divided)
  • Salt and pepper Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Olive oil Olive oil (for seasoning and cooking)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion (small-diced)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups baby spinach (packed)
  • ¾ cup heavy cream (plus more to taste)
  • ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced, plus more to taste)
  • Lemon slices Lemon slices (for garnish)
  • Chopped Italian parsley Chopped Italian parsley (for garnish)

Instructions 

  • Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 6 minutes per side, then rest and slice.
  • Melt butter in the same skillet, sauté onions until softened, then add garlic and remaining Italian seasoning for 1 minute.
  • Add orzo and cook for 2 minutes, then pour in chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 12 minutes.
  • Uncover, stir in spinach, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Add lemon zest and juice to taste, then serve topped with sliced chicken and garnished with lemon slices and parsley.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon just before serving.
Calories: 650kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Chicken, lemon, orzo