This delightful one-pan chicken orzo dish is a quick and delicious meal that you’ll want to add to your weeknight rotation. With juicy chicken, vibrant spinach, a zingy lemon kick, and a plethora of parmesan, it’s a cheerful and easy-to-make meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table in just under 30 minutes.
Budget Information
Total Recipe Cost: Approximately $11.00
Cost Per Serving: Around $2.75
Why This Recipe Works
Why does this recipe shine, you ask? Well, it strikes the perfect balance between taste and simplicity. Using just a single pan means fewer dishes to clean, and who doesn’t love that? The lemon brings a refreshing brightness, while the chicken and orzo offer a satisfying heartiness, all lifted by the silky parmesan to create that quintessential, homey dining experience. Plus, it’s versatile enough to tweak according to what you have in hand, making it the MVP of busy nights.
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Orzo Pasta ($2.00) – This small pasta is perfect for absorbing flavors. No orzo? Try using pearl couscous or ditalini as a substitute.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts ($4.00) – You can swap it with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Lemon ($0.50) – Both juice and zest are used. Lime can be a good stand-in if lemons are not available.
Spinach ($1.00) – Fresh is best, but you can use frozen spinach if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain it first.
Grated Parmesan ($2.00) – Parmesan sharpens up the dish, but Pecorino Romano can do in a pinch.
Heavy Cream ($1.50) – Adds creaminess. You can replace it with half-and-half or a non-dairy creamer to lighten it up.
Chicken Stock ($0.50) – For flavor depth. Vegetable broth is a good alternative for a different spin.
Garlic and Shallot ($0.50) – Essential for the base aromatics. Use onion if shallot is not available.
Step-by-step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Begin by butterflying the chicken breasts. This means slicing them horizontally to create thinner pieces that will cook more quickly and evenly. Season them generously with salt on both sides to enhance flavor.
Step 2: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken to the pan. Cook each side for approximately 4 to 5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Lower the heat to medium-low and add another drizzle of olive oil if necessary. Toss in the diced shallot and minced garlic, stirring them occasionally. Cook until they become translucent and fragrant, filling your kitchen with their invigorating aroma.
Step 4: Stir in the orzo pasta. Add the chicken stock and heavy cream to the pan, and bring everything to a gentle simmer. As the liquid gently bubbles, the orzo will begin absorbing the delicious surrounding flavors.
Step 5: Once the orzo reaches an al dente texture, which usually takes about 8 minutes, introduce the lemon zest, parmesan cheese, black pepper, and spinach to the skillet. The spinach will wilt quickly, mingling beautifully with the dish.
Step 6: Reintroduce the cooked chicken to the pan, nestling it amongst the orzo and spinach. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice for that classic zing, ensuring everything melds together harmoniously. Give it a final taste, adjusting the seasoning with salt if needed, then serve hot.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 500 kcal
Protein: 42 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Total Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When it’s time to reheat, you can either zap it in the microwave or gently warm it on the stovetop with a splash of broth to ensure it stays creamy rather than dry.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some steamed asparagus for a complete meal. A crusty loaf of bread is ideal for soaking up any remaining creamy sauce, leaving your plate irresistibly clean.
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
If your lemon is on the smaller side, consider using two to ensure you get that bold citrus punch. Also, feel free to experiment with different cheeses – a touch of crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a delightful twist.
Recipe FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dish up to the point of adding the spinach. Reheat and add fresh spinach just before serving for best results.
What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
Frozen spinach works too; thaw it and ensure it’s thoroughly drained to keep the dish from becoming too watery.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan to maintain a creamy consistency and flavor.
Can I use other pasta shapes?
Sure! Small shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe can replace orzo, but cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it!
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely, omit the chicken and use vegetable stock. Add more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian meal.
