This One Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo is a cheerful dish packed with bright flavors! Juicy chicken, tender orzo, and zesty lemon come together in one pot, making clean-up a breeze.
Honestly, the lemon really makes this dish shine. I love how quick it is to whip up, perfect for busy nights when I want something tasty without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast adds protein and texture. If you want to switch things up, you can use thighs for a juicier bite or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo mimics rice and absorbs flavors well. If you’re gluten-free, try quinoa or rice instead. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. Feel free to swap it for kale, Swiss chard, or even frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available. Just remember to squeeze out excess water.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings richness. You can use Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Lemon: The zest and juice brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is always best for flavor.
How Can I Cook the Chicken to Ensure It’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key to this dish. Here’s how you can ensure it’s juicy:
- Start by seasoning the chicken well with salt and pepper for flavor right from the start.
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice brown sear, which locks in moisture.
- Cook chicken until no longer pink inside (about 5-7 minutes). Don’t overcrowd the pot; it’s better to work in batches if needed.
Remember, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps keep it juicy before adding it back to the dish.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Orzo and Avoid It Turning Mushy?
Cooking orzo to perfection will help the dish shine. Here’s how to do it:
- Toast the orzo briefly in the pot after adding it to the onions and garlic. This enhances the nutty flavor.
- When you pour in the chicken broth, make sure it’s at a simmer. This helps the orzo cook evenly.
- Cook until tender, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on it, as orzo can go from perfect to mushy quickly.
By monitoring cooking times and stirring gently, your orzo will turn out just right!
How to Make One Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or kale)
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be ready to serve in about 35 minutes, making it a quick and tasty meal for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the diced chicken breast with salt and pepper to taste. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook them until they’re nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and dried oregano, cooking them together for another minute until you can smell those wonderful aromas!
3. Add Orzo and Simmer:
Next, stir in the orzo pasta and let it cook for about 1 minute—this toasts it slightly and brings out the flavor. Now, pour in the chicken broth, along with the lemon zest and lemon juice. Bring this mixture to a good simmer!
4. Combine Chicken and Asparagus:
Add the trimmed asparagus and return the cooked chicken to the pot. Cover it with a lid and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Finish with Spinach and Cheese:
Once the orzo is done, stir in the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the spinach wilts and everything is nice and creamy.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish your beautiful dish with lemon slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh finish!
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful One Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo! It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Yes! While orzo gives a lovely texture, feel free to substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini shells. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as different pasta types may require modifications. Make sure to adjust the liquid amount if necessary, as some may absorb more than others.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Breast?
If you prefer, you can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or diced firm tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as protein types will cook at different rates!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months! When reheating, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to help keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Without Spinach?
Absolutely! You can omit the spinach or substitute it with another leafy green like kale or Swiss chard. Just remember to chop and cook it until wilted in the final step. You can also add vegetables like peas or broccoli for an extra nutrient boost!
