Print

Creamy One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo with Spinach

Close-up of pan-seared chicken pieces served over creamy lemon chicken orzo pasta mixed with dark green spinach.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this easy, creamy one-pan lemon chicken orzo for a quick weeknight dinner. It combines tender chicken, bright lemon flavor, and comforting orzo pasta with spinach for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and mostly cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the dry orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Return the chicken to the skillet. Cover the skillet and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts completely. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. If using, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top, cover briefly until melted, then serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra bright flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
  • If you prefer chicken thighs, use them instead of breasts; adjust cooking time as needed.
  • This recipe works well with chicken cutlets sliced thinly.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/lemon-chicken-orzo-recipe/