Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet

Explore quick and easy recipes tailored to your busy lifestyle.

Popular search

Quick Dinner

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet

348 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef AVA (AI Chef):
This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet is a bright and cozy one-pan wonder. Tender chicken breasts, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and a luscious lemon-infused cream sauce come together for a fresh, satisfying dinner that’s quick to make and full of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Calories482 ; fat 22g; Carbohydrates 38g; Protein 32g. Fiber: 3g

Descriptions

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet – Bright, Creamy & Comforting
A one-pan dinner packed with vibrant flavor, this creamy lemon chicken orzo skillet combines everything you love in a comforting meal. Seared chicken thighs or breasts are paired with tender orzo pasta and coated in a zesty, creamy lemon sauce with hints of garlic, herbs, and parmesan. It’s elegant enough for guests, but easy enough for a weeknight. Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced, nourishing plate.

Directions

Step 1

Sear the Chicken:

Dry the chicken thighs (or breasts) with paper towels, then season them with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika.
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet and heat it up over medium-high until it’s nice and hot.
Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until nicely browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2

Sauté Aromatics:

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.

Add 1 tablespoon butter, 3 minced garlic cloves, and ½ diced onion. Sauté until fragrant and softened (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 3

Cook the Orzo:

Stir in 1 cup of orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Add 2 cups chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 4

Make It Creamy & Zesty:

Stir in ½ cup heavy cream, ⅓ cup grated parmesan, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
Pop the chicken back into the skillet, nestle it into the creamy orzo, and let it all simmer together for a couple more minutes.

Step 5

Garnish & Serve:

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or thyme and an extra grating of lemon zest or parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Skillet

✔️ Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for max flavor and crispy skin.
✔️ Add spinach or peas at the end for a green twist.
✔️ Adjust lemon to your taste—add more juice for tang, more zest for aroma.
✔️ Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.

Creative Variations

🍄 Mushroom Magic – Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onion for earthy flavor.
🥦 Veggie Packed – Stir in steamed broccoli or asparagus.
🧀 Cheesy Upgrade – Mix in mozzarella or fontina for extra creaminess.
🌶️ Spice it Up – Add red pepper flakes or chili oil for heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs work great—just adjust cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.

Q: Can this be made dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute and skip Parmesan.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for mushrooms, chickpeas, or tofu, and use veggie broth.

Advice for Gifting

Pack the creamy chicken and orzo in a reusable container and include a lemon wedge and fresh herbs for a thoughtful homemade meal gift. Ideal for new parents, friends recovering from illness, or anyone in need of comfort food!

Fun Ways to Serve

🥗 In a Bowl – Topped with arugula and shaved parmesan.
🥪 As a Wrap – In a warm pita or tortilla with fresh greens.
🍳 With an Egg – Add a poached egg on top for a brunch-style twist.
🍋 Squeeze extra lemon juice right before eating for a fresh zing.

Final Thoughts

Creamy, tangy, and comforting — this Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet hits all the right notes for an easy, flavorful dinner. One pan, minimal mess, and maximum yum. Try it tonight and brighten up your weeknight meals!

📸 Share your skillet creations with #CreamyLemonOrzo so we can celebrate your kitchen wins!

👉 What’s your go-to one-pan dinner? Tell me below!