Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Seared Lemon Chicken

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Introduction:

This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Seared Lemon Chicken is a perfect harmony of bright citrus and rich, velvety pasta. Juicy, golden-seared chicken pairs effortlessly with creamy, cheesy orzo, all kissed with lemon for a dish that feels indulgent yet refreshingly light. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together in under an hour perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes.
  2. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add orzo and cook 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear marinated chicken 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and rest.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add heavy cream and stir. Mix in Parmesan cheese and cook until sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Stir in cooked orzo, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Plate creamy orzo, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Variation

  1. Swap Chicken for Shrimp or Salmon
    If you’re in the mood for seafood, seared shrimp or a crispy salmon fillet make a delicious substitute for chicken. Both pair wonderfully with the creamy, lemony orzo and cook quickly just season and sear until cooked through, then place on top of the orzo for a fresh coastal twist.
  2. Add a Pop of Veggies
    Stir in baby spinach, green peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes at the end of cooking. These add color, texture, and a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the Parmesan cream sauce without overpowering it.
  3. Make It Spicy
    Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing or sprinkle chili oil on top before serving. This adds a gentle heat that cuts through the creaminess and adds a new layer of flavor to the dish.

Cooking Notes

  1. Swap chicken with shrimp or salmon for a tasty twist.
  2. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
  3. Add spinach or peas for a pop of color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve with a Crisp Green Salad
    A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a perfect side it adds a refreshing crunch and echoes the citrus notes in the dish.
  2. Add Warm Crusty Bread
    A slice of toasted baguette or garlic bread works great for scooping up any extra creamy sauce and adds a satisfying contrast in texture.
  3. Pair with a Light White Wine or Sparkling Water
    A glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemon and creamy flavors, while sparkling water with lemon keeps it light and refreshing.

Tips

  1. Marinate the Chicken Ahead for Extra Flavor
    Letting the chicken sit in lemon juice, salt, and pepper for even 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge) helps it soak in more flavor and stay juicy when seared.
  2. Warm the Cream Before Adding
    If your heavy cream is cold, it can shock the pan and cause the sauce to separate. Warming it slightly before pouring into the skillet ensures a smooth, velvety sauce.
  3. Zest First, Juice Second
    Always zest your lemon before juicing it it’s much easier to zest a whole lemon than one that’s been squeezed. The zest brings a bright, aromatic citrus flavor that deepens the overall lemony taste.

Prep Time:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 620 kcal
  • Protein: 42g
  • Sodium: 680mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the orzo and chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.

  2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
    You can use half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch whisked in to help thicken the sauce. The result will be slightly lighter but still satisfyingly creamy.

  3. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
    Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild lemon-Parmesan flavor make it a hit with both kids and adults. If your kids aren’t fans of lemon, simply reduce the zest for a more subtle citrus note.

  4. Can I make this gluten-free?
    Yes, simply substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta variety like rice-shaped gluten-free pasta or small gluten-free shells. Be sure to double-check that your broth and Parmesan are gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Seared Lemon Chicken is one of those go-to meals that feels restaurant-worthy yet is so simple to whip up at home. The bright lemon pairs beautifully with the richness of the Parmesan sauce, while the perfectly seared chicken adds heartiness and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this dish delivers cozy, creamy comfort in every bite.

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Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Seared Lemon Chicken

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Seared Lemon Chicken is a perfect harmony of bright citrus and rich, velvety pasta. Juicy, golden-seared chicken pairs effortlessly with creamy, cheesy orzo, all kissed with lemon for a dish that feels indulgent yet refreshingly light. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together in under an hour perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes.
  • In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add orzo and cook 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear marinated chicken 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and rest.
  • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add heavy cream and stir. Mix in Parmesan cheese and cook until sauce is smooth and creamy.
  • Stir in cooked orzo, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste.
  • Plate creamy orzo, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Swap chicken with shrimp or salmon for a tasty twist.
  • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
  • Add spinach or peas for a pop of color and nutrition.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 42g
  • Cholesterol: 165mg

Keywords: creamy orzo, lemon chicken, parmesan pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, skillet chicken, one-pan pasta

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