Description
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried oregano
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup whole milk ricotta cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook for 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is
cooked through.
Stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add the chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 400 per serving Servings: 2 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Drizzle with olive oil and rub to coat. Evenly season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chicken. Sear without moving for 4-5 minutes per side until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Remove to a plate; it will finish cooking later.
3. Toast the Orzo: In the same skillet with the chicken drippings, add the orzo. Toast, stirring frequently, for 1-2 minutes until it smells nutty and turns light gold.
4. Simmer: Carefully pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the orzo, cover the skillet, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 10 minutes.
5. Finish the Dish: Uncover and check that the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp) and orzo is tender. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in ricotta, lemon zest, and lemon juice until creamy. Fold in the spinach until wilted.
6. Serve: Slice the chicken, if desired. Plate the orzo mixture, top with chicken, and garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy lemon chicken orzo is a complete meal, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier dinner, serve with crusty garlic bread. A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the lemon and herb flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
Sear seasoned chicken and set aside. Toast orzo in the same pan, then simmer it in broth with the chicken placed on top. Finish by stirring in ricotta, lemon, and spinach for a creamy, one-pan meal ready in 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, small pasta like ditalini or acini di pepe work, but cooking times will vary. Avoid long pasta shapes.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Can I use frozen spinach? Absolutely. Thaw and thoroughly squeeze out all excess liquid before adding it in step 5 to prevent a watery sauce.
Is there a substitute for ricotta? Full-fat cottage cheese (blended until smooth) or mascarpone are excellent alternatives for a similar creamy texture.
How can I make this dish richer? Stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream with the ricotta, or use a full-fat chicken broth for more depth of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Sear chicken in a single layer to ensure proper browning, not steaming.
- Skipping the Orzo Toast: Toasting the orzo is crucial for a nutty flavor and helps prevent mushiness.
- Overcooking the Spinach: Add spinach last and just wilt it; residual heat will continue to cook it.
- Using Cold Ricotta: Let ricotta sit at room temperature briefly so it blends smoothly without cooling the dish.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo is the ultimate weeknight solution, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and bright lemon creates a comforting yet elegant dish. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a perfect, balanced meal every time. It’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
