Lemon Chicken and Orzo

45 mins
Serves 1
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Directions

  1. 1Cube 1 pound of chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
  2. 2Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a deep 12-inch skillet or 6-quart pot and heat over medium-high heat.
  3. 3Add the cubed chicken to the pan and brown for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. 4Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder while browning.
  5. 5Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth.
  6. 6Add 0.25 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
  7. 7Bring the liquid to a simmer.
  8. 8Add 1 pound of orzo pasta and 2 tablespoons of dried basil.
  9. 9Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
  10. 10Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to medium.
  11. 11Place a lid on the pot and let it simmer for about 9 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is done cooking.
  12. 12Stir the orzo every couple of minutes to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  13. 13Turn off the heat.
  14. 14Add 0.5 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese and 0.25 cup of salted butter.
  15. 15Stir until the cheese and butter are melted and smooth.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breasts, cubed into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 0.25 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 lb orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp dried basil
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 cup salted butter

Equipment

deep 12-inch skilletbrazer6-quart pot

Tips

  • Give the chicken an occasional stir while browning.
  • Stir the orzo every couple of minutes to prevent sticking.
  • To add vegetables, such as asparagus tips or frozen broccoli, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.