Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo
This flavorful Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo recipe combines zesty lemon, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli in a single skillet preparation, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 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
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Toss the chicken pieces with black pepper, half the lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon salt until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently until softened. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Stir the orzo into the onion mixture and toast it lightly for 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the remaining salt. Return the chicken to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 8 minutes.
- Uncover the skillet and add the broccoli florets. Cover again and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until the broccoli becomes crisp-tender and the orzo is al dente.
- Fold in the butter, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and the rest of the lemon zest. Stir until everything is melted and creamy. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
- Transfer the contents of the skillet to serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
To store leftovers, let cool before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding broth if needed to prevent dryness.