Skillet Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo with Spinach
Delicious Skillet Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo with Spinach
Experience the burst of fresh flavors in this Skillet Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo with Spinach. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal, this dish combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and nutrient-rich spinach with orzo pasta for a delightful one-pan creation.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it is also a powerhouse of nutrition. The protein from chicken, the fiber from spinach, and the carbohydrates from orzo make it a well-rounded meal. The bright, refreshing notes of lemon and aromatic herbs elevate its flavor, ensuring your taste buds are satisfied. In approximately 35 minutes, you can bring a wholesome dinner to the table that your family will love.
Pro Tips for Making Skillet Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo with Spinach
– **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh spinach and lemon juice give this dish a vibrant flavor. Substitute with dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available, but fresh will yield the best results.
– **Don’t Overcook the Chicken:** Ensure that the chicken is cooked until golden brown, but remains juicy. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
– **Adjust Broth to Desired Consistency:** If you prefer a creamier dish, increase the broth slightly or add a splash of cream towards the end.
– **Garnish with Extra Lemon:** For an added zing, serve with additional lemon wedges on the side.
– **Experiment with Herbs:** Feel free to substitute oregano with other herbs such as thyme or basil to create your twist on the recipe.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing dish:
– **1 lb (450 g)** boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– **2 tablespoons** olive oil, divided
– **3 cloves** garlic, minced
– **1 cup** orzo pasta
– **2 1/2 cups** chicken broth
– **3 cups** fresh spinach
– **Juice and zest of 1 lemon**
– **1 teaspoon** dried oregano
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **Fresh parsley**, chopped for garnish
Directions
– **Step 1:** Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
– **Step 2:** In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
– **Step 3:** Add orzo and toast for 1 minute, then pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
– **Step 4:** Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender.
– **Step 5:** Stir in spinach, lemon juice, lemon zest, and cooked chicken. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
– **Step 6:** Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information
This dish contains approximately 480 kcal per serving. Ideal for maintaining a balanced diet while still enjoying delicious flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
**Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?**
A1: Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta, but keep an eye on the cooking time.
**Q2: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?**
A2: Absolutely! It reheats well and stays flavorful up to 3 days in the fridge.
**Q3: What can I serve with this dish?**
A3: A side salad or some crusty bread would pair beautifully with this meal.
**Q4: Can I make this dish vegetarian?**
A4: Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or use vegetable broth instead.
**Q5: What if I don’t have fresh lemon?**
A5: While fresh lemon offers the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Adjust to taste.
Conclusion
The Skillet Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo with Spinach is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness. With its easy preparation and nutritional benefits, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy a dish that brings the family together with every delightful bite.
