Description
Bright, creamy, and packed with comfort, this Creamy Lemon Chicken with Orzo & Greens is the ultimate one-pan dinner idea for any night of the week. Juicy chicken thighs are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a luscious lemon-garlic cream sauce with tender orzo and hearty greens. It’s easy, quick, and feels both indulgent and wholesome. Perfect for those looking for a quick dinner, easy recipe, or healthy comfort food packed with flavor and minimal cleanup—this one’s a must-try in your rotation of weeknight meals or elevated dinner ideas.
Ingredients
1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2.5 cups chicken broth
0.75 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 cups chopped kale (or spinach)
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped basil (optional)
0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in orzo and toast for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well.
6. Nestle the chicken back into the pan and add chopped kale. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes.
7. Remove lid, stir in Parmesan cheese, and let sauce thicken slightly.
8. Finish with fresh thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes if using.
9. Serve warm with lemon wedges and additional cheese or herbs if desired.
Notes
Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor—it’s worth the extra minute!
Toasting the orzo before simmering adds a deep, nutty flavor and keeps it from becoming mushy.
If reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (~1.5 cups)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: creamy lemon chicken, easy dinner, one pan chicken, orzo recipe, weeknight dinner