Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo
Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen
I love whipping up a quick and satisfying meal, and Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo has become one of my go-to recipes. The vibrant flavors of lemon and fresh basil meld beautifully with tender chicken and orzo pasta, creating a dish that's both refreshing and hearty. In just 30 minutes, I can have a delicious dinner on the table, perfect for weeknights. Plus, it's a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe always leaves my family raving, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!
When I first made Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The brightness of lemon paired with the aromatic basil really brings the dish to life. I discovered that simmering the chicken in the same pot as the orzo infuses the pasta with rich flavors, making each bite delightful.
One of my best tips is to use fresh basil instead of dried; it really makes a noticeable difference! I also like to toss in some extra vegetables like spinach or tomatoes, which can boost the nutrition and color of the dish. It's a fantastic way to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting dinner at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright, zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
- A satisfying one-pot meal that simplifies dinner prep
- Versatile enough to add your favorite veggies
Understanding the Ingredients
The star of this Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo is undoubtedly the lemon. Fresh lemon juice and zest not only add brightness to the dish but also help to tenderize the chicken, enhancing its flavor. When zesting, be sure to only take the yellow part of the peel; the white pith can introduce bitterness. If you're in a bind, you can substitute with lemon juice from a bottle, but fresh is always best for that vibrant flavor profile.
Basil plays a crucial role as well, imparting a sweet, aromatic quality to the dish. For the best results, use fresh basil rather than dried. If you don't have basil on hand, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, although the flavor will differ. Adding herbs at the end of cooking keeps their flavors intact, giving that lively fresh taste when served.
One-Pot Cooking Techniques
The beauty of this recipe lies in its one-pot method, which not only simplifies cleaning but also allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. When sautéing the chicken, it’s essential to make sure the pieces are in a single layer for even browning. If your pot is crowded, consider cooking the chicken in two batches. Browning creates a depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction, adding a layer of richness that's essential to the overall taste.
After cooking the onions and garlic, ensure you scrape up any bits stuck to the pot before adding the orzo and broth. These browned bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enhance the final dish. I also recommend keeping the heat at medium-low while simmering the orzo to prevent it from becoming mushy. Stirring occasionally not only prevents sticking but also allows you to check on the texture, ensuring that each grain of orzo remains perfectly al dente.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ingredients for Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables!
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Cook the Orzo
Add the orzo to the pot along with the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the pot, add the chopped basil, and stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Enjoy your Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo warm, garnished with extra basil if desired!
Pro Tips
- For added depth, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the orzo from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between, until heated through. For best results, you may also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, this method retains more moisture and doesn’t compromise the texture of the orzo.
This dish also freezes well for future meals. After cooking, let it cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, simply transfer to the fridge overnight, or microwave directly from the freezer, adding a little broth as needed to revive the creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread for a more complete meal. Consider a mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to complement the zesty flavors of the orzo. For a heartier option, garlic bread can provide a lovely crunch that enhances the dining experience.
To elevate the dish further, feel free to top it with grated Parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts for added richness and texture. If you enjoy spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a nice warmth that contrasts beautifully with the bright flavors of lemon and basil.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat orzo?
Yes, whole wheat orzo is a great substitute and will add a bit more fiber.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo?
While it can be frozen, the texture of the orzo may change upon reheating. It's best enjoyed fresh.
→ What other herbs can I use?
If you don't have basil, fresh parsley or cilantro would work well too!
Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo
I love whipping up a quick and satisfying meal, and Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo has become one of my go-to recipes. The vibrant flavors of lemon and fresh basil meld beautifully with tender chicken and orzo pasta, creating a dish that's both refreshing and hearty. In just 30 minutes, I can have a delicious dinner on the table, perfect for weeknights. Plus, it's a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe always leaves my family raving, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Lemon Basil Chicken Orzo
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the orzo to the pot along with the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Return the cooked chicken to the pot, add the chopped basil, and stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Extra Tips
- For added depth, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g