Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo
A delightful one-pot meal that combines juicy chicken, tender orzo, and a creamy lemon garlic sauce.
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 knife for chopping
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
Preparation
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, then add orzo. Stir occasionally and cook until orzo is tender.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Return chicken to the skillet, allowing it to warm through while the sauce thickens.
Serving
- Transfer the Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo to serving plates. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired, before serving.
Storage
- Allow leftovers to cool before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Stir the orzo frequently to prevent sticking.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute chicken thighs for breasts if desired. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
How to Serve: Best served hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken and orzo ahead of time, and finish with the sauce just before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute chicken thighs for breasts if desired. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
How to Serve: Best served hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken and orzo ahead of time, and finish with the sauce just before serving.