Description
A creamy and flavorful one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken, tender orzo, fresh spinach, and zesty lemon. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for busy weeknights, ready in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides of the chicken.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Orzo: In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add orzo and stir for 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, water, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth.
- Add Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach and let it wilt.
- Return the Chicken: Slice the chicken and place it back in the pan to soak up the flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.
Notes
- Swap spinach with kale for variety.
- Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust lemon juice for a tangier flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean