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Lemon Pepper Chicken Orzo – Bright & Easy One-Pan Dinner

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Lemon Pepper Chicken Orzo is a bright and comforting one-pan meal made with juicy chicken, tender orzo pasta, fresh lemon juice, and cracked black pepper. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is creamy without heavy cream and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1 cup fresh spinach
  • Optional: 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken dry and season with salt and cracked black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and let rest.
  3. In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  6. Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Slice rested chicken and return it to the skillet.
  8. Add optional spinach or tomatoes and cook until wilted.
  9. Finish with parsley and optional Parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
  • Toast the orzo briefly for enhanced flavor.
  • Add extra broth if the orzo absorbs liquid too quickly.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeeasily.com/lemon-pepper-chicken-orzo/