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Flavour Quest Recipes

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet (30-Minute One-Pan Pasta

This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet is a bright, comforting one-pan dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken is simmered with orzo pasta in a creamy lemon-infused sauce that’s rich yet refreshing. It’s the perfect balance of cozy and fresh, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want big flavor with minimal cleanup.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Chicken breast boneless, skinless + cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 3 Cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup Orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups Chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 tsp Lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice fresh, (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 tbsp Parsley or basil fresh, chopped (optional)

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the uncooked orzo, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and the chicken is heated through.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.