Description
Creamy Lemon Chicken with Orzo & Greens is a one-skillet dinner bursting with bright citrus flavor, velvety garlic cream sauce, and hearty orzo. This quick and comforting chicken recipe features juicy seared chicken, wilted greens, and a tangy, creamy finish that’s perfect for any weeknight meal.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups fresh spinach or kale
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Lower heat and add butter to the same pan. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add orzo and toast lightly.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally, cooking orzo for 8–10 minutes until nearly tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and juice. Add greens and stir until wilted.
5. Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and sauce is creamy.
6. Garnish with lemon slices, herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Notes
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
Toasting the orzo adds a subtle nutty flavor that deepens the dish.
For a thinner sauce, add a splash of extra broth or cream before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg