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One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

The ultimate comfort food, One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo combines tender chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs in a single pan. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect choice for busy families. Try this dish tonight!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ pound boneless skinless chicken breast cubed
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 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

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Cube 1 ½ pound boneless skinless chicken breast into about 1 ½ inch to 2-inch pieces. Evenly coat the chicken with 2 teaspoons dried basil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, the chicken should be mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet.
  3. Add 1 tablespoon butter, 2 shallots, and 2 cloves garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes. Add 1 cup orzo pasta to the skillet, continually stir, and toss until evenly toasted and light golden brown.
  4. Pour in 3 cups chicken broth, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons lemon zest. Reduce the heat to medium and stir occasionally to evenly cook the orzo without letting it stick to the skillet.
  5. Once the orzo is cooked through, add the chicken and 2 cups baby spinach to the skillet. Stir and continue to cook until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is completely cooked through.
  6. Garnish with lemon slices and shredded parmesan cheese, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
  • Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the wonderful flavors.
  • Garnish: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley for an added burst of flavor when serving.
  • Variations: Feel free to incorporate other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.