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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Parmesan

One-pan creamy lemon chicken orzo with spinach and Parmesan—bright, cozy, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Skillet Orzo
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 tsp salt divided
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 clove garlic minced
  • 1 1/4 cup orzo dry
  • 3 cup chicken broth low-sodium
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more to serve
  • 2 cup baby spinach packed
  • 1 lemon zest and juice

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook 4–5 minutes until browned.
  2. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Stir in orzo and cook 1 minute.
  3. Add broth. Bring to a simmer and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring, until orzo is tender.
  4. Turn off heat. Stir in Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, and spinach until wilted and creamy.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve with extra Parmesan.

Notes

Tip: If it gets too thick, stir in a splash of broth to loosen into a creamy texture.