Juicy seared chicken breast served over creamy, lemon-infused orzo pasta with fresh herbs—this one-bowl wonder is bursting with bright Mediterranean flavor and makes a perfect cozy weeknight dinner or lunch. The rich, velvety orzo complements the zesty garlic-lemon chicken for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Orzo is a simple, elegant dish that feels both hearty and refreshing. The tender, pan-seared chicken brings bold flavor from lemon and garlic, while the orzo is cooked risotto-style for a creamy, comforting base. It’s quick to prepare, requires only a few ingredients, and can easily be scaled for a crowd or prepared in advance for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into tenders
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the Creamy Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tbsp butter
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, oregano, and minced garlic.
   • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
   • Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken before removing it from the pan. Set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Orzo:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the orzo and chicken broth.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed (about 10–12 minutes).
   • Stir in the butter, Parmesan, heavy cream, lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until creamy and smooth.
3. Assemble the Dish:
   • Spoon the creamy orzo into serving bowls.
   • Top with the cooked lemon garlic chicken.
   • Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley and a lemon wedge. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2–3
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add greens: Stir in baby spinach or kale at the end of the orzo cooking for added nutrients.
• Use another protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, salmon, or grilled tofu for variation.
• Make it dairy-free: Omit the Parmesan and cream; use a splash of oat milk and nutritional yeast for a similar effect.
• Boost the flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the orzo.
• Lighter version: Replace cream with Greek yogurt stirred in after the orzo has cooled slightly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo and maintain creaminess.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, covered, for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous can be used, though cooking times may vary.

Is orzo rice or pasta?

Orzo is a type of pasta, though it resembles large grains of rice. It cooks quickly and becomes creamy when simmered in broth.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just reheat the chicken and add lemon juice before serving. It’s a great way to use up leftovers.

What type of Parmesan is best?

Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor and texture for melting into the orzo.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply scale all ingredients equally. Be sure to use a large enough skillet and saucepan to accommodate.

Can I make the orzo ahead of time?

Yes, the orzo can be made ahead and reheated with a splash of broth to bring back the creaminess.

What herbs go best with this dish?

Fresh basil, parsley, or thyme all pair beautifully with the lemon and garlic flavors.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh. Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen and reheated.

How do I prevent overcooking the orzo?

Stir regularly and check for doneness around the 10-minute mark to ensure it stays al dente.

What can I serve with this dish?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables pair well for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Orzo is a delicious, versatile dish that brings together the brightness of citrus, the depth of garlic, and the comfort of creamy pasta in one simple recipe. It’s ideal for busy weeknights but elegant enough for guests, making it a reliable staple in your home-cooked meal rotation. Enjoy it fresh with a sprinkle of herbs and a twist of lemon for a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired experience.

Print