Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo

Name: Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 cups spinach, fresh; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves, minced

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love this Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo for its bright flavors and simplicity! Each bite bursts with zesty lemon and tender chicken, perfectly complemented by the creamy orzo. It’s a dish that not only satisfies my cravings but also brings a splash of sunshine to the table, making it ideal for weeknight dinners and gatherings alike. With just one skillet required, it minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. Trust me, you won't want to miss trying this vibrant meal!

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:33:36.256Z

When I first made this Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo, I was blown away by how quick and delicious it turned out. The bright zing of lemon infused into the chicken truly elevates the entire dish. One tip I discovered is to marinate the chicken in the lemon juice for a short while before cooking; it enhances the flavor and keeps the meat juicy.

I've tried numerous chicken recipes, but this one stands out because it combines a one-pan method with a deliciously creamy pasta. The orzo absorbs the savory juices, creating an incredible texture. It's become a favorite in my home, especially paired with a side salad!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor that brightens the dish
Creamy orzo that absorbs all the delicious juices
Quick and easy preparation in just one skillet

Mastering the Skillet Technique

Using a skillet for this dish offers the advantage of building flavor in one pan. When searing the chicken, ensure your skillet is sufficiently hot—look for a shimmer on the oil before adding the meat. This helps to develop a nice golden crust while sealing in moisture, giving the chicken a tender texture. Cooking for 5-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat is key; overcooking can lead to dryness, so watch for that perfect golden color.

When it’s time to cook the orzo, stirring occasionally is essential to prevent it from sticking together. As the orzo simmers in the chicken broth, it will absorb all the savory flavors, becoming creamy and rich. Keep an eye on the consistency; you want it al dente when done. If you seem to need more liquid, feel free to add a splash of water or additional broth to maintain the desired texture throughout the cooking process.

Why Fresh Ingredients Matter

In this recipe, fresh ingredients like spinach and lemon truly elevate the dish. Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and adds a lovely pop of color to the skillet, while lending a mild, earthiness that balances the tartness of the lemon. Opt for whole lemons to get the zest and juice; the zest contains aromatic oils that enhance the dish’s flavor. If you only have bottled lemon juice on hand, remember it often lacks the brightness that fresh zest provides, so consider adding extra to achieve a similar effect.

The quality of chicken broth is also crucial; a good-quality, low-sodium broth can make or break the overall flavor of the dish. It allows you to control the saltiness while still imparting rich flavor into the orzo. If you want to lighten the dish, consider swapping out the chicken for turkey cutlets or using vegetable broth for a vegan version, filled with your favorite veggies instead of chicken.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup orzo pasta
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 cups spinach, fresh
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced

Make sure you have everything ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Skillet Lemon Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Orzo

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for one minute. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in orzo, lemon juice, and zest. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, until the orzo is al dente.

Add Chicken and Spinach

Return the chicken to the skillet, adding the fresh spinach on top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through.

Serve

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Pair with your favorite salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious Skillet Lemon Chicken With Orzo!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in lemon juice for about 30 minutes before cooking. This also helps to keep the chicken juicy and tender.

Serving Suggestions

This Skillet Lemon Chicken with Orzo pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing salad. Toss arugula with a simple vinaigrette to complement the zesty flavors of the dish. Additionally, crusty bread or garlic knots can be a wonderful side to soak up any leftover orzo and broth, bringing all layers of flavor together in each bite.

If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside a vegetable medley. Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli can provide great texture while complementing the creamy orzo. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top just before serving to add more vibrant color and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To save time on busy weeknights, you can prepare the chicken ahead. Season and sear it earlier in the day; simply store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, add it to the skillet with the orzo and adjust the cooking time, since it will heat through more quickly. This not only streamlines the cooking process but also intensifies the flavors as they marry together during reheating.

For leftovers, store the Skillet Lemon Chicken with Orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth to prevent the orzo from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, or return it to a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This ensures that you maintain the creamy consistency of the dish, making it feel fresh even on the second day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but ensure to thaw it completely before cooking to achieve even cooking.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta or rice.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

A fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables complement it well.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and orzo separately and reheat together when ready to serve.