One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

Name: One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights

One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo is a delightful, zesty dish that combines tender chicken, fresh lemon, and creamy orzo pasta, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-12-31T16:22:30.221Z

This One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo is not only a quick and easy meal but also bursting with flavor. The bright notes of lemon combined with the creaminess of orzo create a comforting yet refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your palate
Easy one-pan preparation for minimal cleanup
Tender chicken and creamy orzo create a satisfying meal

      

A Bright and Flavorful Dish

One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo is a perfect balance of flavors, combining the tangy brightness of fresh lemon with the savory depth of tender chicken. The orzo pasta adds a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully, making it a delightful choice for any meal. Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and wonderful aroma.

The zesty lemon flavor not only enhances the taste but also provides a refreshing twist that lifts your spirits. It's an ideal dish for those who love citrus and seek a meal that's both satisfying and invigorating. With every bite, you'll experience a burst of freshness that makes this recipe stand out.

One-Pan Convenience

One of the best features of this recipe is its one-pan preparation. This means you can cook everything in a single skillet, saving time on both cooking and cleanup. After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend hours washing dishes. With this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Additionally, the one-pan method allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook together. The chicken infuses the orzo with its savory juices, while the lemon zest brightens the entire dish. This technique not only simplifies your cooking process but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal.

Versatile and Customizable

This One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. You can also swap the chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even use shrimp for a seafood twist.

The recipe can easily be adjusted for dietary preferences as well. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein. The creamy orzo and zesty lemon will still shine through, making it a delicious alternative for non-meat eaters.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo:

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the same pan and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook Orzo

Stir in the orzo, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Add the chicken back into the pan, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the orzo is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Finish with Spinach

Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo!

Your meal is ready to be served. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

Tips for Perfecting Your Dish

To ensure your chicken remains juicy and flavorful, avoid overcooking it during the searing process. Aim for a nice golden brown crust, then remove it from the pan to finish cooking later with the orzo. This method preserves the moisture and enhances the flavor.

When adding spinach, consider using a mix of greens for added complexity. Kale or Swiss chard can provide a heartier texture and additional nutrients, making your meal even more wholesome.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra layer of flavor, serve your One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo with a side of crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any remaining broth and adds a satisfying crunch to your meal.

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. The freshness of the salad complements the zesty chicken and orzo beautifully, creating a complete and satisfying dining experience.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it a great option for meal prep or easy lunches throughout the week.

To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the orzo if it has thickened. Stir until heated through, and enjoy your delicious meal again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add a splash of broth to revive the orzo.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A light salad or steamed vegetables pairs well with One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo.