Lemon Pepper Chicken Orzo

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Recipe Intro From munchymoodz

Bright, zesty, and packed with flavor, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Orzo is your new go-to spring dinner. Creamy orzo meets juicy, seared chicken, vibrant lemon, and savory Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base for a dish that feels light yet satisfying. With just a few pantry staples, it’s quick enough for weeknights but elegant enough for guests.

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  • Recipe Card
Prep time: 10mins
Cook time: 25mins
Serves or Makes: 2–3 servings

Recipe Card

ingredients

For the Orzo:

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base
  • 1 1/2 cups hot water (for broth)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 3 - 4 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3/4 cup orzo
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1 handful of baby spinach
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon lemon-infused olive oil (or olive oil + lemon zest and juice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoons paprika
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method

  • Step 1

    Prepare the broth: In a bowl, dissolve Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base in 1 1/2 cups of hot water. Set aside.

  • Step 2

    Cook the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry. Toss with lemon-infused olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  • Step 3

    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.

  • Step 4

    Transfer to a plate and let rest before slicing.

  • Step 5

    Make the orzo: In the same pan, melt butter. Add garlic and onion and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.

  • Step 6

    Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes. Add the prepared broth, cover, and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Add extra broth if needed.

  • Step 7

    Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let the spinach wilt and cheese melt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  • Step 8

    Assemble and serve: Spoon creamy orzo into bowls and top with sliced chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.