One Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo
Introduction
When evening hits and the family starts asking for something comforting yet light, I reach for a dish that balances bright citrus with creamy richness—my One Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo. This [Focus keyword] recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering restaurant‑quality flavor with minimal cleanup. As a go‑to [Related keyword] option, it brings together tender chicken, buttery orzo, and a zesty lemon sauce that sings on the palate.
Ingredients
- 4 bone‑in, skin‑on chicken thighs
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low‑sodium chicken broth
- 1 large lemon (zested and juiced)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium‑high heat. Add the chicken, skin side down, and sear until deep golden, about 5‑6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle lemon zest over the aromatics for an instant burst of brightness.
- Deglaze with a splash of broth, scraping up browned bits; this is where the [Focus keyword] base begins to form.
- Return the chicken to the pot, add the orzo, lemon juice, remaining broth, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 15‑18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and the sauce thickens, creating the signature comfort of the One Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with pepper; this step adds a creamy richness that defines our [Related keyword] profile.
- Return the chicken to the pot for the final 5 minutes of cooking, allowing the meat to absorb the lemon‑infused sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra drizzle of lemon juice before serving.
- Serve hot straight from the pot, and watch the family reach for seconds.
Pro Tips & Notes
- For extra creaminess, stir in an additional ¼ cup of cream cheese at the end.
- Use bone‑in chicken for richer flavor; the bones release gelatin during cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the dish simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
- Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you want a leaner option, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Finish with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Total Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this dish gluten‑free? Yes, substitute orzo with gluten‑free rice pasta or quinoa.
- What can I use instead of chicken broth? Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version.
- Is it possible to add vegetables? Absolutely; peas, spinach, or roasted carrots integrate nicely.
- How long does it keep in the fridge? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
In summary, this One Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo proves that a wholesome, flavorful meal can be ready in under an hour without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re meal‑prepping for the week or hosting a casual dinner, the dish delivers on its promise of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal [Focus keyword] for any occasion. Give it a try, and you’ll find a new go‑to [Related keyword] that brings sunshine to the table.