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skillet with creamy orzo pasta and chicken, asparagus and spinach
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Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

This lemon chicken orzo comes together in one pot in less than 35 minutes for an easy weeknight!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 5 servings
Calories 320kcal
Author Ashley C.

Ingredients

  • 3 teaspoons olive oil divided
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite sized pieces
  • salt and pepper
  • 1/4 cup  chopped onion
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 1/4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup fresh asparagus cut into 1" pieces
  • 3 to 5 ounces spinach or kale
  • zest and juice from one lemon
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese plus more for serving

Instructions

  • Heat 2 teaspoons of the olive oil in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot add in the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is thoroughly cooked then remove it from the skillet onto a plate.
  • Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil to the skillet then add in the onion. Sauté for one minute or until the onion starts to soften.
  • Add in the orzo and garlic and sauté for about a minute. Pour in the chicken broth, stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
  • Once boiling, cover with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for approximately 5 minutes and then add the asparagus. Simmer covered for an additional 5 minutes, then add the spinach. Cook for one minute or until spinach is wilted. Remove the lid and if there is any excess liquid remaining continue to cook uncovered for another minute.
  • Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice and Parmesan cheese until everything is combined. Garnish with more Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Video

Notes

Storing: Lemon orzo with chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until everything is warmed through. Top with additional cheese as necessary. 
Freezing: If you’d like to freeze any leftovers, add individual portions to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags with as much air removed as possible. Freeze for up to 4 months. When ready to serve, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and serving. 

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 8.2g | Saturated Fat: 2.5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 64mg | Sodium: 218mg | Potassium: 0mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 0IU | Vitamin C: 0mg | Calcium: 0mg | Iron: 0mg