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