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Close-up of garlic butter lemon chicken orzo in a white skillet, with golden chicken pieces, creamy orzo, and lemon slices on top, garnished with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper, under warm natural daylight.

Garlic Butter Lemon Chicken Orzo

This one-pan Garlic Butter Lemon Chicken Orzo is creamy, bright, and deeply satisfying. With seared chicken, tender orzo, and a luscious lemon-garlic butter sauce, it’s comfort food with a citrus twist, ready in just 30 minutes.
Servings 4 people
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Equipment

  • large skillet Preferably 12-inch nonstick or cast iron
  • zester or microplane For fresh lemon zest
  • Cutting board & knife For chopping and prep
  • measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 lemon, juice and zest
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden.
  • Add chicken broth and lemon juice. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release browned bits. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
  • Return chicken to skillet. Stir in lemon zest and Parmesan (if using). Mix until everything is coated and creamy.
  • Top with chopped parsley and serve warm with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best results. Toasting the orzo adds a nutty depth and prevents mushiness. Add a splash of cream or Greek yogurt at the end for extra silkiness. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 35gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 680mgPotassium: 490mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 550IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 160mgIron: 2mg
Author: Jano Ferrel
Calories: 520kcal
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Keyword: 30 minute meal, garlic butter chicken, lemon chicken orzo, one pan dinner