Why Make This Recipe
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Spinach is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken, bright lemon flavor, and healthy spinach with tender orzo pasta. It’s perfect for dinner any night of the week. This recipe is quick to make and offers a balanced meal, combining protein, vegetables, and grains. Plus, the lemony garlic goodness makes it a standout on your dinner table!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Spinach
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Directions:
- Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Add cooked orzo, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well.
- Slice the chicken and serve on top of the orzo mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Spinach
Serve this dish warm, with the sliced chicken placed on top of the orzo and spinach mixture. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a delicious finish. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a light salad for a refreshing meal.
How to Store Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Spinach
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay good for about 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Spinach
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and taste.
- Adjust the lemon juice to your liking for more or less tang.
Variation
You can easily customize this dish by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. For a different protein, try substituting shrimp or tofu.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like orzo, farro, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the orzo and chicken ahead of time, then combine everything right before serving.
Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! It stores well and can be portioned out for easy meals throughout the week.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Spinach
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts Boneless and skinless preferred
- 1 cup orzo pasta Cook according to package instructions
- 2 cups spinach Fresh spinach recommended
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 whole lemon, juiced and zested Adjust quantity for desired tang
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken
- Salt and pepper to taste To season chicken
- Parmesan cheese for serving Grated
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.
Cooking
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Add cooked orzo, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well.
- Slice the chicken and serve on top of the orzo mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.