EASY 1-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

Ingredients

• 2 pieces Chicken Breast (skinless, boneless, about 200 g each)
• 1 tsp Salt (kosher or sea salt)
• ½ tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, thyme, and basil)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for searing the chicken)
• 1 cup Orzo Pasta (dry)
• 2 cups Chicken Broth (low‑sodium)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
• 1 tsp Dried Herbs (such as thyme or oregano)
• 2 tbsp Fat‑Free Heavy Cream (adds richness without extra fat)
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

   Pat the chicken breasts dry, then sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning.

   Time: PT2M

2. Sear the Chicken

   Heat the skillet over medium‑high heat, add olive oil, and place the chicken breasts in the pan. Cook 5‑6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent with foil.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: medium‑high

3. Toast the Orzo

   In the same skillet, add the dry orzo and toast, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: medium‑high

4. Add Garlic

   Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

   Time: PT0M30S

   Temperature: medium‑high

5. Simmer with Broth

   Pour in the chicken broth, stir, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and let simmer for 12‑15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.

   Time: PT14M

   Temperature: medium

6. Finish the Sauce

   Stir in the grated Parmesan, dried herbs, fat‑free cream, and lemon juice. Return the chicken (and any juices) to the pan, slicing the chicken if desired, and heat through for 2 minutes.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: medium

7. Serve

   Plate the lemon chicken over the creamy orzo, garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy immediately.

   Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

350

Protein

30 g

Carbohydrates

30 g

Fat

10 g

Fiber

2 g