Lemon Pepper Chicken Orzo

Cooking Method: Pan-fry, Saute

Courses: Dinner, Lunch

Servings: 3

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year, Spring, Summer

Description

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Orzo is creamy, cozy, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavor in every bite. Tender chicken is paired with a rich, velvety orzo that’s infused with bright lemon and savory goodness, creating the perfect balance of comfort and freshness. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an easy yet impressive meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or gathering around the table with family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 Chicken breast
1 tbsp Lemon-infused olive oil (can replace with olive oil + lemon juice & zest)
1 tbsp Olive oil
½ tbsp Garlic powder
½ tbsp Paprika
Salt and Pepper (to taste)

For the Orzo

1 tbsp Butter
3-4 Garlic cloves (finely chopped)
1 small Onion (diced)
¾ cup Orzo
1½ tsp Chicken bouillon base
1/3 cup Heavy cream
Handful of baby spinach
1/3 cup Parmesan
Zest and juice of half lemon
Fresh parsley

Instructions

1
Make broth by dissolving chicken bouillon base in 1 ½ cup of hot water and set aside.
2
Pat chicken breasts dry. Toss with 1 tbsp lemon infused olive oil and the seasonings. Heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat and cook chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from pan, let it rest, then slice.
3
In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp butter. Saute garlic and onion until fragrant and soften. Add orzo to the pan and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the prepared broth. Place a lid and cook until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Add more broth if needed.
4
Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, parmesan, lemon zest and juice. Let spinach wilt and cheese melt and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
5
Serve the creamy orzo topped with sliced chicken, then garnish with fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of parmesan for the perfect finish.

Note

• Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Toast the orzo briefly before adding liquid for extra flavor.
• Stir the orzo occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking.
• Add extra broth if the orzo absorbs liquid too quickly.
• Add the lemon juice at the end to keep the flavor bright and fresh.

Read it online: https://munchymoodz.com/recipe/lemon-pepper-chicken-orzo/