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Lemon Basil Orzo with Chicken Recipe

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4.1 from 84 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Lemon Basil Orzo with Chicken is a fresh and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, bright lemon, fragrant basil, and Parmesan cheese. This easy weeknight dinner bursts with vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavors, making it a perfect wholesome and flavorful dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Pasta and Flavorings

  • 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 cup baby spinach (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Generously season the cubed chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor before cooking.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned, to release its aroma.
  4. Toast the orzo: Add the dry orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for approximately 1 minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning and add a nutty flavor.
  5. Simmer the orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook the orzo for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the broth.
  6. Add flavorings and greens: Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, and baby spinach if using. Mix well to combine all flavors and allow the spinach to wilt slightly.
  7. Combine chicken and finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together to evenly distribute ingredients and warm the chicken through.
  8. Serve: Plate the Lemon Basil Orzo with Chicken immediately, adding extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired for a richer taste.

Notes

  • Fresh basil provides the best flavor and aroma to the dish.
  • Adding asparagus or peas can increase the vegetable content and add more texture.
  • Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields a creamier and more authentic finish compared to pre-grated options.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Find it online: https://kitchenmartha.com/lemon-basil-orzo-with-chicken-recipe/