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–+ servings
A close-up of a creamy Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo Skillet topped with golden chicken pieces and fresh parsley.

Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo Skillet

This recipe makes a one-pan meal featuring chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh herbs with a bright lemon flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Seasoning
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1 tsp Dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 0.25 tsp Black pepper
Skillet Base
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 medium Yellow onion Chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 1.5 cups Orzo pasta Uncooked
  • 3 cups Chicken broth Low sodium
  • 1 large Lemon Zest and juice
  • 0.5 cup Heavy cream
  • 0.25 cup Fresh parsley Chopped
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese Grated

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Toss the cut chicken pieces with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta and toast it for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Stir the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Add the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of extra broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency.

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