Name: Lemon Butter Herb Chicken Orzo Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast (diced); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; salt and pepper (to taste); 1 cup spinach (chopped); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

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There’s something truly comforting about a one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one skillet. The Lemon Butter Herb Chicken Orzo Skillet is exactly that kind of dish—bright, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe marries juicy chicken breast with orzo pasta in a luscious lemon butter sauce, accented by garlic, oregano, thyme, and fresh greens. It’s a weeknight winner that feels special enough for company yet simple enough for busy evenings. Whether you’re craving something fresh and light or crave a cozy dinner with a zingy twist, this skillet has you covered.

Why It’s My Go-To

This Lemon Butter Herb Chicken Orzo Skillet is my absolute go-to for several reasons. First, it’s a complete meal in one pan, which means fewer dishes and less fuss. The combination of lemon and butter creates a silky sauce that coats every bite, while the herbs add depth without overwhelming the palate. Plus, orzo cooks quickly and absorbs the broth beautifully, making every forkful rich and flavorful.

Beyond the taste, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with seasonal veggies or swap herbs based on what you have on hand. The recipe also comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. If you love vibrant, fresh flavors with a comforting twist, this skillet will become a staple in your rotation.

Ingredient Rundown

1 pound chicken breast, diced: Tender, lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce perfectly.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic, adding a subtle fruity richness.
1 tablespoon butter: Adds creaminess and richness to the lemon herb sauce.
2 cups chicken broth: The cooking liquid that flavors the orzo and keeps everything moist.
1 cup orzo pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up the lemon butter sauce wonderfully.
1 lemon, zested and juiced: Provides bright acidity and fresh citrus notes that balance the richness of butter and chicken.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic depth.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a slightly peppery, earthy herb flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers subtle floral and woodsy undertones.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
1 cup spinach, chopped: Adds a pop of color, nutrition, and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and a vibrant finish.

Essential Tools for Success

Large skillet or sauté pan: A wide pan with a lid works best for cooking the chicken and simmering the orzo evenly.
Sharp knife and cutting board: For dicing chicken and chopping herbs and spinach.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure the right balance of broth, lemon, and seasoning.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring without scratching your pan.

Cook Lemon Butter Herb Chicken Orzo Skillet Like This

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breast, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and mostly cooked through—about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Reduce the heat to medium, then add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat it in the butter and herbs. Toast the orzo for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until it begins to turn golden. This step enhances the nuttiness of the pasta.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Lemon

Pour in the chicken broth along with the lemon zest and juice. Stir everything together, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the orzo cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Greens

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the chopped spinach. Stir gently to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top. Give everything a final stir and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Fresh Seasonal Changes

Add sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard during colder months for a heartier green.
Incorporate fresh basil or dill instead of parsley for a different herbal twist.
Mix in roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to boost the veggie content.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

Chicken cuts: Feel free to use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful protein. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Broth choice: A good quality chicken broth elevates the dish, but low-sodium options allow you to control the saltiness better.
Lemon balance: The lemon juice and zest brighten the sauce—don’t skip either! They work together to create that signature zing.
Orzo cooking: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks to avoid overcooking or sticking. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This Lemon Butter Herb Chicken Orzo Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving for best texture, but it works in a pinch.

Freezing is possible but not ideal because the orzo may become mushy upon thawing. If you do freeze leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently as described above.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! While orzo works best due to its small size and quick cooking time, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

Dried parsley can be used, but add it earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavor to develop. Alternatively, fresh cilantro or basil can make great substitutes, offering their own unique flavor profiles.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine or additional olive oil. The lemon and herbs will still provide plenty of flavor without the richness of butter.

Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of diced breast?

Yes, but cooking times will be longer. For bone-in pieces like thighs or drumsticks, sear and cook them thoroughly first, then remove from the pan while you prepare the orzo. Add them back in during the last few minutes to combine flavors.

The Takeaway

This Lemon Butter Herb Chicken Orzo Skillet is a brilliant example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort. It’s quick to prepare, bright with lemon, and hearty enough to satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this skillet meal brings freshness and ease to your dinner table. The combination of juicy chicken, buttery orzo, and vibrant herbs makes it a dish you’ll want to return to again and again.

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