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Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

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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.

  • Author: Kylie
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stove Top
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 cups finely chopped kale
  • 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 1 cup half and half + more as needed
  • zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped herbs (like parsley + dill)
  • Kosher salt
  • fresh cracked pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat until it melts.
  2. Add onion along with a couple pinches of salt and pepper and cook, stirring frequently, for about 4 minutes.
  3. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, sage, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Cook for another minute or so, stirring frequently.
  4. Add a couple splashes of broth, scraping all the yummy bits off the bottom of the pot with a spatula.
  5. Stir in uncooked orzo, kale, rotisserie chicken, 1 cup half and half, and the remaining broth along with a couple pinches of salt and pepper.
  6. Cover and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring every couple minutes so the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, covered, for about 5-7 minutes or until the noodles are al dente. Add more half and half if the pan seems to dry before the noodles have finished cooking.
  7. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Enjoy!
  8. If you enjoyed this recipe, please leave a 5-star rating and review below!

Notes

    • 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.

Find it online: https://midwestfoodieblog.com/lemon-chicken-orzo-pasta/