One-Pot Lemon Garlic Orzo with Chicken – A Bright, Flavorful Meal for Busy Nights

This One-Pot Lemon Garlic Orzo with Chicken is a vibrant, satisfying meal that brings together tender chicken, creamy orzo, and fresh lemon in a single pot. Perfectly balanced with garlic and herbs, this dish is light yet comforting, with a creamy texture from the orzo that feels luxurious without the heavy ingredients. Quick to make and full of flavor, it’s an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner!

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Number of Servings: 4
• Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg

Ingredients List

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 2, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt – 1 teaspoon (divided)
• Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Garlic cloves – 4, minced
• Onion – 1 small, finely diced
• Lemon zest – from 1 lemon
• Lemon juice – from 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
• Chicken broth – 3 cups (720ml)
• Orzo pasta – 1 1/2 cups (300g)
• Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
• Spinach – 2 cups (60g), roughly chopped
• Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup (25g), grated (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Season and Sear the Chicken
   Season the chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and black pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
   In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and lemon zest, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Orzo and Broth
   Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor. Stir in the orzo, Italian seasoning, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Cook the Orzo
   Cover the pot and let the orzo cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the liquid and become tender but creamy.
5. Add Spinach, Chicken, and Lemon Juice
   Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach, cooked chicken, and fresh lemon juice. Mix well and let the spinach wilt for 1-2 minutes. If using, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy texture.
6. Serve and Garnish
   Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the Lemon Garlic Orzo with Chicken in bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy immediately while warm!

Tips for Culinary Success

• Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to the bright flavor of this dish. Avoid bottled lemon juice if possible, as it lacks the same vibrant taste.
• Creamier Texture: If you prefer an extra creamy consistency, add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
• Substitute for Spinach: If you don’t have spinach, feel free to substitute with other leafy greens like kale or arugula. Just be aware that heartier greens may need a little more cooking time to soften.
• Avoid Overcooking the Orzo: Orzo cooks quickly and can become mushy if left too long. Check for doneness at the 10-minute mark and keep an eye on it as it simmers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish with chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe and tend to be more forgiving in terms of moisture. Just cut them into similar-sized cubes and cook until golden.

Q: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative. The dish will still be flavorful and creamy from the orzo.

Q: Can I use whole-wheat orzo instead?
A: Yes, whole-wheat orzo can be used for a healthier twist. However, it may require slightly more cooking time and a bit of extra broth as it absorbs more liquid than regular orzo.

Q: How long does this dish last in the fridge?
A: This One-Pot Lemon Garlic Orzo with Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen up the sauce.

There you have it – a delicious and simple One-Pot Lemon Garlic Orzo with Chicken that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for a cozy, no-fuss dinner. This dish brings together the brightness of lemon, the heartiness of chicken, and the creamy texture of orzo in a single pot. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the convenience and comfort of a one-pot meal that tastes like a special treat!