One-Pot Lemon Orzo Chicken (Printable Version)

Chicken, lemon, orzo and peas combine for a bright, comforting one-pot spring meal ready in under 45 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 14 ounces), cut into 1-inch pieces

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Grains & Pasta

07 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta (uncooked)

→ Dairy

08 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Liquids

10 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Oils & Seasonings

11 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
12 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# How-To Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until golden and just cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, melt butter and add chopped onion. Sauté for 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add orzo pasta to the pot. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
04 - Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Return the seared chicken to the pot along with thawed peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well and cook uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes, until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
06 - Remove the pot from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, garnished with extra lemon zest or Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bright lemon flavor enhances the tender chicken and creamy orzo for a refreshing yet comforting dish.
  • One-pot cooking means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor infusion.
  • Sweet green peas add a pop of color and freshness to every bite.
  • Simple, easy-to-find ingredients make it an accessible Mediterranean-inspired meal.
02 -
  • Use a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking and enough space for the orzo to expand.
  • Don’t skip toasting the orzo; it adds a subtle nutty flavor and prevents mushiness.
  • Adjust seasoning at the end after adding Parmesan, since the cheese adds saltiness.
  • Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
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