Pin This creamy lemon herb chicken orzo is my solution for those nights when I crave a meal that feels both light and comforting. Orzo pasta simmers right in the same pan with juicy rotisserie chicken, soaking up a tangy lemon cream sauce. Fresh thyme and basil brighten every bite, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without a big fuss.
The first time I made this, we had a surprise visit from my parents. I pulled it together in under half an hour and everyone was asking for seconds. Now it is my go-to when I want something quick but a little bit special.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: gives the dish a silky base and helps develop flavor when sautéing aromatics. Choose extra virgin for the best taste
- Garlic: minced to release its natural oils brings depth and warmth. Use fresh cloves for the most aroma
- Shallot: adds subtle sweetness and complexity. Pick ones that feel firm and look shiny for freshness
- Orzo pasta: creates that creamy silky texture. Look for Italian brands for tender results
- Low sodium chicken broth: infuses gentle savory flavor. Pick a broth with a short ingredient list for best quality
- Shredded rotisserie chicken: makes things ultra easy and juicy. Try to choose one with seasoned skin for added punch
- Heavy cream: provides indulgent creaminess. A high fat content will make the sauce truly luscious
- Lemon juice and zest: lend brightness balancing the richness. A heavy lemon with thin skin is usually the juiciest
- Dijon mustard: optional for a gentle tang and depth. A French Dijon has classic bite
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: bring everything together. Taste as you go for ideal seasoning
- Fresh thyme and basil: chop these just before using for their peak aroma. Fresh leaves pop so much more than dried
- Grated Parmesan: optional for a nutty finish. Go for a block of Parmesan and grate as needed for best melt
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Gently heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and shallot stirring constantly and cook for about two minutes. Wait until the shallot is soft and the garlic smells sweet but watch closely so nothing browns or burns. This step builds the hidden backbone of flavor
- Toast the Orzo:
- Pour dry orzo into the pan. Stir it around so it gets a hint of color and a nutty aroma emerges. This will take just one minute and gives a deeper flavor that makes a surprising difference
- Simmer the Orzo with Broth:
- Add chicken broth to the toasted orzo and raise the heat to bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let it cook uncovered for about eight minutes or until most of the liquid is soaked up and the orzo is just tender. If it looks dry add a dash more broth or a splash of water
- Add Chicken and Creamy Elements:
- Now add in the shredded rotisserie chicken heavy cream lemon zest lemon juice and a little Dijon mustard if you want it. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Lower the heat to medium low and let all the flavors meld together as you stir gently for two or three minutes. The sauce should be creamy and coat all the orzo without feeling heavy
- Finish with Herbs and Serve:
- Take the pan off the heat and immediately stir in the fresh thyme and basil. Taste once more and adjust any seasoning. Spoon into bowls while it is still warm and if you like top with freshly grated Parmesan for a little extra richness
Pin I have always loved how fresh basil totally transforms this simple dish. My kids joke that it makes the kitchen smell like a summer garden. In our house the first taste always leads to a race for the leftovers.
Storage Tips
Store any extra orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If it thickens up just add a splash of broth or water when reheating. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave so the cream stays silky.
Ingredient Substitutions
No rotisserie chicken Use chopped cooked turkey or even leftover roast vegetables for a vegetarian twist just switch to vegetable broth. If you want it dairy free coconut cream works surprisingly well though the flavor is more tropical.
Serving Ideas
Serve with a crisp arugula salad and a hunk of warm crusty bread. For a heartier meal roast some spring asparagus or zucchini alongside.
Pin This creamy lemon herb chicken orzo is the perfect blend of zesty and comforting. You will want to make it again and again for easy yet stunning dinners.