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Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

A comforting dish that harmoniously blends tender chicken, zesty lemon, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced For a juicy finish, use organic or free-range chicken if available
  • 1 cup orzo pasta Look for whole wheat options for some extra fiber
  • 2 cups chicken broth Homemade is best, but high-quality store-bought works just fine
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested Choose a fresh, juicy lemon for that zesty zing
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin for flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic makes a significant difference
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped Feel free to swap this for kale or Swiss chard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for serving Grated fresh is always a treat

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned, about 6-7 minutes.
  3. Once the chicken is browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the orzo and chicken broth, bringing everything to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked and tender.
  6. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Store leftover Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to revive its texture. You can prep all the ingredients a day in advance.