Lemon Chicken and Orzo
One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo is the perfect meal for busy weeknights. It's ready in just 45 minutes and easily customizable.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or any neutral tasting oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- pinch red pepper flakes optional
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup onions small diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup orzo
- 3 cups chicken stock
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon
- 1 ½ cups english peas frozen
Instructions
- Combine the garlic powder, dried oregano, thyme, basil, paprika, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Pat the chicken dry and season each piece on both sides.
- Place a large pan over medium high heat. Drizzle in the olive oil and brown the chicken breasts for 3-5 minutes on each side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium, add in the butter and sauté the onion until tender then stir in the orzo. Cook for 4 minutes or until the orzo is lightly browned. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the chicken stock, lemon juice and remaining salt to the pan, bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring often. Now stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
- Adjust the heat to medium-low, return the chicken to the pan, cover, and continue cooking until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Garnish with lemon zest. Enjoy!