Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: one pot lemon chicken orzo. This dish is a total lifesaver when I’m juggling a busy schedule and still want something delicious and comforting to share with my family. The bright lemon flavor combined with tender chicken and the delightful texture of orzo creates a symphony of taste that’s simply irresistible! I remember one evening cooking this while my kids set the table; the smell wafting through the house had everyone eagerly waiting for dinner. Plus, it all comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze! Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your home, too.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium is best)
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested for that zesty kick
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (feel free to use more if you like!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin is my go-to)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (it adds a nice pop of color)
How to Prepare One Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo
- First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want that oil shimmering but not smoking—just the right temperature to get started!
- Next, toss in the diced chicken and cook it until it’s beautifully browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to get an even sear.
- Once the chicken is looking good, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
- Now, it’s time to add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir everything together to combine and bring it to a delightful boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’re looking for the orzo to be cooked al dente.
- When the orzo is nearly done, stir in the chopped spinach. It’ll wilt beautifully and add a pop of color! Season everything with salt and pepper to taste—don’t be afraid to adjust to your preference!
- Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. You did it! Serve this bright, delicious dish straight from the pot and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
- Bright, zesty lemon flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy ingredients packed with protein and veggies.
- The orzo absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a creamy texture.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices for endless variations.
Tips for Success
To ensure your one pot lemon chicken orzo turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t rush the browning of the chicken; it adds so much flavor! If you want an extra zing, consider adding a splash of white wine along with the chicken broth for depth. Also, keep an eye on the cooking time for the orzo—overcooking can make it mushy, so taste it a minute or two before the suggested time. If you like a creamier texture, stir in a bit of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. And remember, adjusting the lemon juice to your taste can really make the dish shine. Happy cooking!
Variations of One Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo
One of the best things about one pot lemon chicken orzo is how adaptable it is! If you’re feeling creative, why not switch things up? You can add different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus for a colorful twist. If you’re a fan of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can bring a nice kick! For a heartier version, try throwing in some chickpeas or cannellini beans for added protein and texture. And if you love herbs, consider adding fresh dill or basil for a fragrant finish. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and make this dish your own!
Nutritional Information
This one pot lemon chicken orzo is not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch! Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with 10g of fat and 25g of protein. You’ll also get 45g of carbohydrates and 2g of fiber, making it a balanced meal option. Plus, it’s low in sugar and cholesterol, so you can enjoy it guilt-free!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious one pot lemon chicken orzo is super simple! Just let any leftovers cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through, and voila! You’ve got a quick and tasty meal ready to go. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, but I find that the stovetop keeps the texture just right!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for this dish, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even small shells. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pastas may require adjustments.
What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?
No worries! You can easily use vegetable broth for a lighter option or even water if you’re in a pinch. Just remember to season it a bit more to make up for the flavor of broth.
Can I make this with frozen chicken?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it beforehand for even cooking. If you forget to thaw, you can still cook it from frozen, but you’ll need to adjust your cooking time—just ensure it’s fully cooked through.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! One pot lemon chicken orzo is a fantastic meal prep option. Simply store it in individual portions in airtight containers for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner throughout the week.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To keep this dish dairy-free, simply skip any cheese additions. You can also add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Call to Action
I’d love to hear how your one pot lemon chicken orzo turned out! Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts or any tweaks you made to the recipe. If you enjoyed it, don’t forget to rate the recipe! Happy cooking, and let’s keep the kitchen adventures going!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta.
Print
One Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo: 7 Zesty Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and flavorful one pot lemon chicken orzo dish that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add orzo, chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in chopped spinach until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust lemon juice according to your taste.
- You can add other vegetables if desired.
- This dish serves well with a side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one pot lemon chicken orzo
