Description
This Lemon Herb Chicken with Orzo and Spinach is a light yet comforting one-pan dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh greens, and zesty lemon. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s a wholesome recipe that balances flavor and nutrition in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Cook 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in onion and garlic, cooking 3–4 minutes until the onion softens.
- Add the cooked orzo, spinach, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook 2–3 minutes more, until spinach wilts and the flavors meld.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use whole-wheat orzo for added fiber and nutrition.
- Substitute kale or arugula for spinach if you prefer stronger greens.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan for a creamier, cheesy finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: chicken orzo, lemon chicken pasta, healthy chicken dinner