Description
A flavorful Lemon Chicken and Orzo recipe featuring tender chicken cubes cooked in a zesty lemon broth with delicate orzo pasta, finished with parmesan and butter for a creamy texture. Perfect for a quick and comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Orzo and Broth
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 16 ounces orzo
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
Finishing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup salted butter
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the boneless skinless chicken breast into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and tender bites.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and season with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Add Broth and Orzo: Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and add orzo and dried basil to the skillet. Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Orzo: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium, cover with a lid, and cook the orzo until al dente, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat, then add grated Parmesan cheese and salted butter. Stir gently until melted and creamy. Serve hot immediately.
Notes
- You can add vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
- For delicate vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes, stir them in after cooking and let them wilt in the residual heat.
- Use fresh lemon juice for a bright, authentic flavor.
- Be sure to stir occasionally while cooking orzo to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
- If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the butter or substitute with olive oil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
