Description
Skillet comfort meets zesty freshness in this Creamy Lemon Chicken with Orzo & Greens. Juicy pan-seared chicken thighs nestle into a bed of creamy orzo, flavored with garlic, lemon, and tender spinach. It’s an easy recipe that feels both elegant and effortless — ideal for weeknights or casual entertaining. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner idea or wholesome food inspiration, this one-pan meal delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup. Try it as a healthy snack alternative, a cozy lunch, or as part of your go-to dinner ideas rotation.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken thighs
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 cups chicken broth
3 cups spinach (or kale), chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Optional: lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
1. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
3. Sear chicken thighs 4–5 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Stir in orzo and toast lightly for 1 minute.
6. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.
7. Cover and cook orzo 8–10 minutes until tender and creamy.
8. Add chopped spinach and stir until wilted.
9. Return chicken to skillet, cook 3–5 more minutes until fully done.
10. Stir in Parmesan and sprinkle thyme and basil before serving.
Notes
Don’t overcook the orzo — stir frequently and adjust broth if needed.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances flavor over pre-shredded.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: creamy chicken, easy dinner, orzo recipe, one-pan meal, lemon chicken