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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo with Fresh Herbs

Close-up of a bowl of Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo pasta topped generously with chopped fresh herbs.
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Prepare a bright and rich one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and a strong lemon and fresh herb flavor profile.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

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 5-7 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 4 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 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.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir well to combine and heat through for 2 minutes.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh parsley, dill, and chives. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the chicken broth with dry white wine, adding it after the garlic and cooking until it reduces by half before adding the broth.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the orzo to simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes of cooking time.
  • Use any combination of fresh herbs you prefer; basil or tarragon work well in place of dill or chives.

Nutrition

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