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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo with Fresh Herbs

A close-up of a white bowl filled with Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo with Fresh Herbs, topped generously with chopped parsley.
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Prepare a simple, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, bright lemon flavor, and a mix of fresh herbs.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the white wine, if using, and let it cook down for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Add the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Stir in the cooked chicken, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Continue to cook, uncovered, for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, creating a creamy texture.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
  8. Fold in the fresh parsley, dill, and chives. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess without heavy cream, stir in 1/4 cup of milk or half-and-half during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Use the zest from one large lemon for the best flavor.
  • You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor profile.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://magazinemeal.com/creamy-lemon-chicken-orzo-with-fresh-herbs/