Lemon Chicken Orzo

This one-skillet Lemon Chicken Orzo is the flavorful weeknight dinner you’ve been looking for. Lean, protein-rich chicken breasts are simply flavored with classic Italian seasonings, while hearty whole-wheat orzo and spinach get a creamy, herb-infused coating with a hint of heat from crushed red pepper. Parmesan cheese is balanced by bright lemon juice and zest. Add a sprinkling of torn basil leaves for a fresh finish. Keep reading for our expert tips, including how to cut down on prep time.

Tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen

These are the key tips we learned while developing and testing this recipe in our Test Kitchen to make sure it works, tastes great and is good for you too! 

• Toasting the orzo enhances its flavor, adding a nutty richness that wouldn’t be achieved otherwise. Coating the orzo in oil also helps prevent it from sticking and allows for even cooking.
• To save time, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken and stirring it into the other ingredients at the end.
• If you can’t find whole-wheat orzo, regular or tricolor orzo would work well. You can also substitute chicken thighs or another cut of chicken, and including feta cheese would add some extra flavor.
• We recommend cooking in a cast-iron skillet, but you can also use a 12-inch stainless-steel skillet or sauté pan.

Nutrition Notes

• Chicken breast is the leaner part of the chicken, with almost no saturated fat. It’s a great protein source and also provides several essential micronutrients, including B vitamins and choline, which is necessary for a healthy nervous system.
• Whole-wheat orzo brings fiber and complex carbohydrates to this dish. The fiber from the orzo and the protein in the chicken team up to help fill you up and keep you satisfied longer.
• Spinach is packed with inflammation-calming antioxidants, as well as vitamins C and A for a healthy immune system and eyes. Spinach is especially rich in vitamin K, a nutrient that supports healthy bones.
• Chicken broth typically doesn’t add a whole lot of nutrition (though this does vary by brand). It can, however, add a lot of sodium, so be sure to check the label and choose a reduced-sodium or no-salt-added broth. This also allows you to season the dish to your taste without overdoing it on sodium.