One-Pot Lemon Orzo Chicken (Printable)

Zesty lemon, tender chicken, creamy orzo, and peas combine for a vibrant, easy one-pot spring meal.

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 14 ounces), cut into 1-inch pieces

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - Zest of 1 large lemon
06 - Juice of 1 large lemon
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Grains & Pasta

08 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta, uncooked

→ Dairy

09 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Liquids

11 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Oils & Seasonings

12 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
15 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# How-To:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until golden and just cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, add butter and chopped onion. Sauté for 3 minutes until onion turns translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
03 - Stir in uncooked orzo and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
04 - Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Return cooked chicken to the pot along with thawed peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and cook uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes, or until orzo is al dente and most liquid has been absorbed.
06 - Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
07 - Serve warm, garnished with extra lemon zest or Parmesan as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • All-in-one cooking means quick cleanup and less fuss.
  • Zesty lemon brightens the dish and complements the tender chicken perfectly.
  • Sweet peas add color and a pop of natural sweetness.
  • Comforting and creamy texture achieved without heavy cream unless you choose to add it.
  • Easy to customize with proteins like shrimp or tofu for dietary preferences.
02 -
  • Use a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven for even cooking and easy stirring.
  • Carefully monitor orzo cooking time to achieve perfect al dente texture without mushiness.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds more flavor than pre-grated versions.
  • Adjust salt toward the end of cooking as broth and cheese add natural saltiness.
  • Let the dish rest for a few minutes off heat to allow flavors to meld before serving.
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