Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo is that kind of dish that captures comfort in every bite. Imagine tender chicken pieces seasoned with zesty lemon and pepper, nestled with vibrant broccoli and creamy orzo. It’s a one-pan meal that not only delights the palate but also provides a symphony of colors on your dinner table. Whether you’re racing against the clock on a busy weeknight or planning a cozy family dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes. As someone who often juggles life’s many responsibilities, I’ve relied on this dish for its ease and flavor—perfect for those moments when you want to impress but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo isn’t just another average meal; it’s a blend of flavors that come together seamlessly. Here are a few key reasons you’ll want to whip this up:

• Quick and Easy: With a total cook time of around 30 minutes, this recipe allows you to serve up a hearty dinner without spending all evening in the kitchen.
• Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients that are often staples in your pantry, you can put a nourishing meal on the table without breaking the bank.
• Kid-Approved: The appeal of tender chicken and cheesy orzo makes it a surefire hit for even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile: This dish is perfect for a weeknight family dinner, but it’s also impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.

“This Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo is hands down my go-to weeknight meal. It’s flavorful, easy, and my kids love it!” — Jamie, satisfied home cook.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Embarking on cooking Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a breeze! This recipe can be made in just one skillet, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. Here’s what you can expect from the process:

1. Start by seasoning your chicken.
2. Brown the chicken, then sauté your onions and garlic.
3. Toast your orzo before adding broth and the chicken back.
4. Add broccoli, simmer, and finish with butter and lemon juice for that creamy goodness.

Let’s break down the ingredients needed for this vibrant dish.

What You’ll Need

To create this delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Seasoning: 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper, 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest, 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
• Cooking Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Vegetables: 1 medium yellow onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), and 2 cups small broccoli florets
• Pasta: 1 cup orzo
• Broth: 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Finishing Touches: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley (for garnish)

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option!

Step-by-Step Directions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps for a delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo:

1. Season the Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with black pepper, half of the lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon of salt until evenly coated.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Toast the Orzo: Stir the orzo into the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute to allow the pasta to lightly toast.
5. Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and the remaining salt. Return the chicken to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Allow it to simmer for about 8 minutes.
7. Add Broccoli: Uncover the skillet and stir in the broccoli florets. Cover again and cook for 3–4 minutes, until the broccoli is crisp-tender and the orzo is al dente.
8. Finish the Dish: Fold in the butter, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and the remaining lemon zest. Stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
9. Serve: Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for Serving

Wondering how to best present your Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo? Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top can elevate the dish.
• Sides That Pair Well: Consider serving with a simple mixed greens salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or crusty garlic bread to mop up any remaining sauce.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the bright lemon flavors beautifully.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is a great way to enjoy this dish again!), here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s cooled down before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheat with Care: To reheat, place your dish in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to bring back moisture.

Expert Advice

To make the most of your Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo, here are some pro tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Aim for golden-brown chicken pieces that remain juicy; overcooked chicken can become dry.
• Toast the Orzo: Toasting the orzo in the skillet enhances its flavor, giving a nutty taste that pairs wonderfully with the lemon.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Customize the dish to suit your palate by adjusting the amount of lemon juice or cheese.

Creative Twists

Looking to get adventurous? Here are some creative variations on the classic recipe:

• Add More Veggies: Swap broccoli for asparagus or spinach for a colorful twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or dill for an aromatic lift.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this meal?

The total time for preparation and cooking is about 30 minutes, making it great for weeknights.

Can I substitute the orzo with another pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any small pasta shape like penne or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.

How do I know when my chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. A quick cut will also show clear juices.

With an abundance of vibrant flavors and effortless preparation, Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a dish that truly brings joy to the table. This recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation—once you try it, you’ll understand why!

Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Poultry

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Description

A comforting one-pan meal with tender chicken, zesty lemon, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 (divided)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups small broccoli florets
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken by tossing pieces with black pepper, half the lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon salt until evenly coated.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in the orzo with the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute to toast.
5. Pour in chicken broth and the remaining salt, return the chicken to the skillet and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 8 minutes.
7. Uncover and stir in the broccoli florets. Cover again and cook for 3-4 minutes, until broccoli is crisp-tender and orzo is al dente.
8. Fold in butter, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and remaining lemon zest until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

For a twist, substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp, or add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: lemon chicken, broccoli orzo, weeknight dinner, one-pan meal, family-friendly