Lemon Chicken Orzo is a light and comforting one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, bright lemon flavor, and delicate orzo pasta. It’s the perfect balance of citrusy freshness and hearty satisfaction, ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless)
orzo pasta
olive oil
garlic
onion
chicken broth
lemon juice
lemon zest
baby spinach or kale (optional)
parmesan cheese (optional)
salt
black pepper
fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.

Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear on both sides until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same pan, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Stir in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes.

Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer.

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and cover. Cook until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.

Stir in spinach or kale, if using, and cook until wilted.

Optional: Stir in grated parmesan for extra creaminess.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Add cherry tomatoes for a sweet burst of flavor.
Replace spinach with arugula for a peppery bite.
Use whole wheat orzo for added fiber.
Top with crumbled feta instead of parmesan for a Mediterranean twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen.
You can freeze for up to 2 months, though orzo may soften slightly upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add chickpeas or white beans for protein.

Does this recipe work with rice instead of orzo?
Yes, but adjust liquid and cooking time as needed.

Is it very lemony?
The lemon flavor is bright but balanced. You can reduce the juice or zest to taste.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, just skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Is this dish good for meal prep?
Absolutely, it reheats well and holds up in the fridge.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, use 1/3 the amount of dried herbs like parsley or thyme.

Can I cook the chicken and orzo together from the start?
It’s best to sear the chicken first for flavor, then cook orzo in the same pan.

What’s the best chicken cut for this?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more flavor, but breasts work great too.

Can I add cream to this recipe?
Yes, a splash of heavy cream at the end can make it richer.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, it has mild flavors and tender textures that kids usually enjoy.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Orzo is a vibrant, nourishing dish that brings together the simplicity of a one-pan meal with the freshness of lemon and the comfort of pasta. Perfectly suited for any night of the week, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.