Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo

why make this recipe

This dish cooks fast. It has bright lemon taste, creamy cheese, and soft orzo. It is a one-pot meal that feeds a family and cleans up easy.

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introduction

This recipe mixes chicken, orzo, spinach, and lemon for a warm, cozy meal. For a similar lemon chicken idea that is very creamy, try the creamy parmesan lemon chicken recipe which uses the same bright flavors.

how to make Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo

Cook the chicken first, add garlic, then the orzo and broth. Let orzo simmer until soft. Stir in spinach, lemon juice and zest so the greens wilt. Turn off heat and mix in parmesan for a smooth finish. Season with salt and pepper and serve right away.

Ingredients :

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in orzo and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until orzo is cooked.
5. Add fresh spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest; stir until spinach is wilted.
6. Remove from heat and mix in grated parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

how to serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo

Serve it hot in bowls. Add extra parmesan on top if you like. A side salad or steamed vegetables go well. Fresh lemon wedges on the side add more brightness.

how to store Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo

Cool the dish to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Do not freeze the dish with spinach; freeze only plain cooked orzo or chicken if needed.

tips to make Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo

• Dice chicken into even pieces so it cooks evenly.
• Watch the orzo near the end so it does not overcook.
• Use fresh lemon for bright flavor.
• If the mix is too thick, add a little more warm broth.
• Stir in the parmesan off the heat to keep it creamy and not grainy.

variation (if any)

• Use baby kale instead of spinach.
• Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or turkey.
• Stir in a spoon of cream for extra richness.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I use different pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes. Use small pasta like acini di pepe or small shells. Cooking time may change.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Replace chicken with mushrooms or white beans and use vegetable broth.

Q: How do I make it less lemony?
A: Use half the lemon juice and less zest. Taste and add more if you want.

Q: Is this recipe freezer friendly?
A: It is best fresh. You can freeze cooked chicken and orzo separately, but the spinach and cheese change texture when frozen.

Q: Can I use pre-grated parmesan?
A: You can, but fresh grated parmesan melts better and gives a creamier result.

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