One-Pot Lemon Orzo Chicken Peas (Print version)

Tender chicken, lemon zest, creamy orzo, and green peas combine for a comforting spring one-pot meal.

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 14 oz), cut into 1-inch pieces

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Grains & Pasta

07 - 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta

→ Dairy

08 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Liquids

10 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Oils & Seasonings

11 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
12 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Directions:

01 - Warm olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
02 - Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate.
03 - Add butter to the pan. When melted, add finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
04 - Add orzo to the pan and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
05 - Pour in chicken broth, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
06 - Return chicken to the pot. Add peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well and cook uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
07 - Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
08 - Serve warm, garnished with additional lemon zest or Parmesan cheese as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • You get loads of flavor but only need to wash one pot&8212;it&8217;s seriously a game changer on busy nights.
  • The lemon makes the orzo taste fresh, and the creamy finish is pure dinner bliss every time.
02 -
  • If you overcook the orzo, it gets gluey&8212;set a timer and check pasta early.
  • Adding chicken back just before the end keeps it from drying out and absorbs all the lemony flavor.
03 -
  • Always zest the lemon before juicing&8212;tossing a juiced lemon in the grater is no fun.
  • Letting the orzo toast briefly makes the dish taste richer and more complex.
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