Description
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup whole milk ricotta cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Directions:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and oregano, and cook until golden brown and fully
cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté onion until soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and orzo, cooking for another minute.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook until the orzo is tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Reduce heat to low and stir in ricotta, Parmesan, and lemon zest. Mix until creamy.
Add cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the spinach, stirring until wilted.
Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh basil, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the spinach and basil, zest the lemon, and cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking.
2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get a golden sear, then stir until fully cooked (165°F internal). Transfer to a plate.
3. Sauté Aromatics & Orzo: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Cook onion until translucent. Add garlic and orzo, stirring for 1 minute to lightly toast the pasta.
4. Simmer Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer, then cook for 9-11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
5. Create Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in ricotta, Parmesan, and lemon zest until a smooth, creamy sauce forms.
6. Finish & Serve: Add the cooked chicken and spinach to the skillet. Stir until spinach wilts and everything is heated through. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy orzo dish is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a touch of freshness, add a side of roasted cherry tomatoes or steamed asparagus. Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For wine pairings, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the lemon and herbs beautifully.
How-to Summary
Sear seasoned chicken and set aside. In the same pan, sauté onion, garlic, and orzo. Simmer with broth until orzo is tender. Reduce heat and stir in ricotta, Parmesan, and lemon zest for a creamy base. Return chicken to the pan, add spinach until wilted, garnish with basil, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, small pasta like ditalini or acini di pepe work well. Adjust cooking time per package instructions.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? Omit the chicken, use vegetable broth, and add a can of drained white beans or chickpeas for protein.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? It’s best served fresh. The orzo continues to absorb liquid, making leftovers thick. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
What can I substitute for ricotta? Full-fat cottage cheese (blended until smooth) or mascarpone are excellent substitutes for a similar creamy texture.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with added liquid.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the orzo in the final simmer, as it will become mushy. Aim for al dente. Do not add the ricotta cheese over high heat, as it may curdle or separate; always reduce to low first. Ensure your chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking. Finally, don’t skip scraping the browned bits (fond) from the pan after cooking the chicken, as this adds immense flavor to the broth.
Conclusion
This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender chicken, creamy ricotta, bright lemon, and fresh spinach makes for a comforting yet elegant dish perfect for any weeknight. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly balanced, creamy pasta skillet every time. Enjoy this versatile recipe as a dependable staple in your cooking repertoire.
