Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo (Print)

Chicken, orzo, and fresh herbs in a creamy lemon sauce make an easy, elegant dish for any meal.

# Components:

→ Base

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
03 - 1 small shallot, finely chopped
04 - 1 cup orzo pasta
05 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Creamy Lemon Chicken

06 - 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
07 - 2/3 cup heavy cream
08 - Juice and zest of 1 lemon
09 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, optional
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, to taste
11 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Herbs & Finish

12 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
13 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley
14 - Grated Parmesan cheese, optional

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
02 - Stir in orzo pasta and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until lightly golden.
03 - Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a simmer. Cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
04 - Stir in shredded chicken, heavy cream, lemon juice and zest, Dijon mustard if using, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes until creamy and heated through.
05 - Fold in chopped thyme and basil. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just twenty minutes so you can have a relaxing evening
  • One-pan meal means easy cleanup
  • Fresh herbs and lemon keep things lively and not too heavy
  • Great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken
  • The flavor goes well with just about any side salad or veggie
02 -
  • This recipe is rich in protein yet feels delicate from the lemon and herbs
  • Works beautifully as leftovers and gets even more flavorful overnight
  • Perfect answer for using leftover chicken after a roast
03 -
  • Always zest the lemon before cutting and juicing or you will end up wrestling with a slippery citrus
  • Taste the sauce before serving sometimes a pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon makes all the difference
  • Do not be shy with fresh black pepper it really brings out the flavors

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