Lemon Chicken Orzo
Lemon Chicken Orzo is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and vibrant orzo pasta for a delightful meal. This comforting recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy date nights. With its bright flavors and easy preparation, it transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels special yet is straightforward enough for everyday cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 fresh lemons (zest and juice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove.
- In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in orzo pasta and chicken broth; bring to a simmer ensuring all pasta is submerged.
- Add lemon zest, juice, and thyme leaves; stir well.
- Nestle the seared chicken back into the pot along with spinach or kale. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes until the pasta absorbs most of the liquid.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg