Go Back
Print

Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450
A flavorful and easy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, broccoli, and orzo pasta in a zesty lemon pepper sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Chicken & Seasoning

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt

Orzo & Vegetables

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups small broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 0.333 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions 

  • Toss chicken with pepper, half the lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon salt.
  • Heat olive oil in skillet. Add chicken and cook until browned. Remove chicken.
  • Add onion to skillet and cook until softened. Incorporate garlic and cook until fragrant.
  • Stir orzo into onion mixture and cook for 1 minute.
  • Pour in chicken broth and remaining salt. Return chicken to skillet and bring to a boil. Simmer for 8 minutes.
  • Stir in broccoli florets. Cook until broccoli is crisp-tender and orzo is al dente.
  • Fold in butter, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and remaining lemon zest. Stir until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
Calories: 450kcal
Cost: $18
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Keyword: Chicken