Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet

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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet

This creamy lemon chicken orzo skillet is a bright and comforting one-pan meal that is perfect for spring. Tender chicken, creamy orzo, fresh spinach, and lemon come together in about 30 minutes for an easy dinner that feels both cozy and fresh. It is a simple, flavorful recipe that is great for busy weeknights but delicious enough to serve to guests.

Course dinner, Main Dish

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Keyword chicken, comfort food, one pot, pasta

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 15

Total Time 35

Servings servings

Calories 414kcal

Author Laura

Equipment

Ingredients

1 Tbsp olive oil
½ cup onion finely diced
3 cloves garlic minced
1 ½ cup orzo 10 ounces
1 cup milk
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup lemon juice from two lemons, zest one of them and set aside the zest
¼ tsp salt
pinch black pepper
1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
3 cups chicken cooked and diced (I used rotisserie chicken)
1-2 cups fresh spinach chopped (I use 1 cup)
1-2 tsp lemon zest depending on how lemony you like it

Instructions

In a deep 12-inch skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add in the onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent.
Add the garlic and orzo and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until orzo is lightly toasted.
Add in the broth, milk, cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer. Simmer for 9 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is al dente. There will still be liquid left in the pan after cooking. This helps create the sauce for the pasta.
Remove from the heat and add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Add in the chicken, spinach, and lemon zest. Return to medium-low heat and warm the chicken.
Serve topped with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. The pasta will thicken as it cools. It is best served as soon as possible. Serves 6.

Nutrition