30-Minute Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

This easy one-pan lemon chicken orzo pasta comes together in just 30 minutes for a creamy, cozy dinner bursting with bright lemon flavor and tender chicken. It’s the perfect quick comfort meal that feels fresh and hearty all at once.

Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes and made all in one pan for easy cleanup.
• Creamy, comforting, and full of fresh lemony flavor with perfectly cooked orzo and tender rotisserie chicken.

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

• Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps sauté the onions and garlic. You can substitute olive oil if you prefer.
• Yellow Onion: Creates a flavorful base for the dish. Shallots or white onion can work as alternatives.
• Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor and aroma. Use pre-minced garlic for convenience.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds herby depth. You can swap it for a mix of dried basil, dried oregano, and dried thyme.
• Rubbed Sage: Gives a warm, earthy note that complements the chicken and lemon. Dried thyme or dried rosemary can be used instead.
• Chicken Broth: Provides liquid for cooking the orzo and infuses flavor. Vegetable broth works too.
• Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and creates a creamy texture. Substitute with ditalini or small shells if needed.
• Kale: Adds delicious earthy flavor and hearty texture. Spinach can be used as well.
• Rotisserie Chicken: A time-saver that adds protein in just minutes. Any leftover cooked chicken works well here.
• Half and Half: Makes the sauce creamy without being too heavy. You can use whole milk instead but it won’t be quite as creamy.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Brighten up the dish with fresh citrus flavor. Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.
• Fresh Chopped Herbs (Parsley + Dill): Add freshness and balance to the creamy sauce. Use any mix of soft herbs you love.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat until melted. Add onion with a couple pinches of salt and pepper and cook, stirring frequently, for about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, sage, and more salt and pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring often, until fragrant.

Add a couple splashes of broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom with a spatula. Then add uncooked orzo, kale, rotisserie chicken, half and half, and remaining broth with a couple pinches of salt and pepper.

Stir until well combined. Cover and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, stirring every few minutes so the orzo doesn’t stick. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 5–7 minutes or until the orzo is al dente. Add more half and half if needed.

Stir in lemon zest, juice, and fresh herbs.

Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

• Stir frequently while the orzo cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more half and half or broth if it thickens too much.
• A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese takes this dish to the next level.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• You can chop the onion, kale, and herbs up to a day ahead and store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
• The dish itself is best made fresh since the orzo absorbs liquid as it sits, but you can prepare it a few hours in advance and gently reheat with a splash of broth or half and half.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• The orzo will continue to absorb liquid, so you may need to stir in a bit of broth or half and half when reheating.

Reheating Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

• Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or half and half to loosen the sauce.
• Stir frequently until warmed through.
• You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave with a bit of added liquid.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• fresh house salad
• crispy garlic bread
• Parmesan roasted potatoes
• air fryer green beans
• air fryer asparagus

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