There’s something magical about the aroma of One Skillet Lemon Butter Chicken and Orzo wafting through your kitchen. Imagine succulent chicken, perfectly seared, swimming in a luscious lemony sauce with fluffy orzo dancing around it, ready to be devoured. It’s as if your taste buds have just won the lottery of flavor.
This dish isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s also a delightful reminder of family dinners where laughter fills the air and everyone eagerly anticipates the first bite. Whether it’s a weekday meal or a special occasion, this recipe promises to bring joy and deliciousness to your table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This One Skillet Lemon Butter Chicken and Orzo is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The flavor profile is a perfect balance of zesty lemon and rich butter that tantalizes your taste buds
- With its vibrant colors and inviting aroma, this dish is visually stunning on any dinner table
- It’s versatile enough to adapt with seasonal vegetables or your favorite herbs, making it a go-to recipe year-round
Last summer, I whipped up this dish for my family during our annual backyard barbecue. The looks on their faces—pure bliss—when they took their first bites still make me chuckle. Peach Watermelon Salad.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta absorbs flavors beautifully; you can also substitute with rice if needed.
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Fresh Lemons: Look for bright yellow lemons with smooth skin; they yield more juice and flavor.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over seasoning; it adds richness without overpowering.
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Garlic: Fresh cloves provide that aromatic kick; choose firm ones for maximum flavor.
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Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to better manage saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
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Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; feel free to swap with basil if desired.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every bite; make sure they are fresh for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop garlic and parsley so they’re ready when you need them.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown on both sides.
Add Garlic and Orzo: Once the chicken is browned, toss in minced garlic and orzo pasta. One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant; those aromas are heavenly! You might also enjoy this Cajun chicken pasta recipe recipe.
Pour in Broth and Lemons: Carefully pour in chicken broth along with lemon juice and zest. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while scraping any flavorful bits off the skillet bottom.
Simmer Until Cooked Through: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until orzo is tender and chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Uncover occasionally to stir gently.
Add Final Touches: Stir in remaining butter until melted, then mix in chopped parsley for that fresh finish. Taste test—add more salt or pepper if necessary!
Now you’re ready to scoop this delicious One Skillet Lemon Butter Chicken and Orzo onto plates! Enjoy every mouthwatering bite combined with laughter from friends or family gathered around your table. Chicken Tinga Tacos
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or boring; let this dish remind you that simplicity can lead to unforgettable flavors!
You Must Know
- This scrumptious One Skillet Lemon Butter Chicken and Orzo recipe simplifies weeknight dinners
- It’s a one-pan wonder, saving you time on both cooking and cleanup
- The aromatic lemon and buttery goodness make this dish a hit at any table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the orzo while making the creamy lemon butter sauce in the same skillet. Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo This method ensures all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your One Skillet Lemon butter chicken dish even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender chicken, ensure it’s at room temperature before cooking
- Don’t rush the searing process; let it develop that golden crust
- Remember to taste as you go to adjust seasoning for maximum flavor!
Creating this dish reminds me of a dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop raving about it—they thought I was a gourmet chef!
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, feel free to substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free orzo or any gluten-free pasta for this recipe.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking for an extra kick!
One Skillet Lemon Butter Chicken and Orzo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Skillet Lemon Butter Chicken and Orzo is a vibrant, flavorful dish that elevates weeknight dinners with ease. Succulent chicken breasts seared to perfection blend beautifully with fluffy orzo pasta in a rich lemon-butter sauce, creating a delightful meal that’s both comforting and refreshing. With just one skillet to clean, this recipe promises a hassle-free cooking experience while delivering an unforgettable taste that will have everyone at the table smiling.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 fresh lemons (juice and zest)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients; chop garlic and parsley.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown on both sides.
- Add minced garlic and orzo to the skillet; stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a gentle simmer while scraping the skillet's bottom.
- Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes until orzo is tender and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Stir in remaining butter until melted, mix in chopped parsley, adjust seasoning if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
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