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Creamy Lemon Orzo with Chicken and Spinach

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A creamy, zesty one-pot pasta dish made with tender chicken, orzo, spinach, parmesan, and a luscious lemon cream sauce. Comforting yet refreshing, it’s ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tbsp olive oil

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

1 1/2 cups orzo pasta

4 cups chicken stock

1 lemon (zest and juice)

1/2 cup double cream (heavy cream)

2 cups fresh spinach

1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep non-stick pan over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
  2. Reduce heat slightly, then add garlic and oregano. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the garlic softens and becomes fragrant.
  3. Stir in the orzo, chicken stock, lemon zest, and black pepper. Cover with a lid and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken and orzo are fully cooked. Add a splash of water if the mixture becomes too dry.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in cream, spinach, and lemon juice. Cook for 1–3 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the sauce turns creamy.
  5. Remove from heat, stir in parmesan cheese, and adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and lemon zest if desired.

Notes

  • Swap chicken with shrimp for a seafood variation.
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
  • Replace spinach with kale or arugula for a different green.
  • Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version.
  • Try pecorino cheese instead of parmesan for a sharper taste.
  • Leftovers may thicken; loosen with a splash of chicken stock when reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/creamy-lemon-orzo-with-chicken-and-spinach/