Cheesy Lemon Chicken Orzo 🍋🐔🧀

This flavorful dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty lemon with orzo pasta for a delightful meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The bright citrus notes brighten up the hearty chicken and orzo, making it a hit with family and friends alike. Pair it with a light salad for a refreshing balance! 🥗✨

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Orzo

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken thighs seasoned with oregano, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.

2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Incorporate Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

4. Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Allow it to cook for 10-12 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

5. Add Cheese: Once the orzo is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.

6. Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.

🍽️ For a little extra flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving for a spicy kick!

Variations

• Veggie version: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian dish.
• Herbaceous delight: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic flavor twist.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn, ensuring all ingredients comply with gluten-free standards.
• Lighter option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a cashew cream for a healthier, dairy-free alternative.

🔄 You can also add vegetables such as peas or cherry tomatoes when you add the orzo to give this dish a colorful and nutritious boost!

Enjoy your Cheesy Lemon Chicken Orzo! 🍽️💛