One-Pot Lemon Orzo Chicken Peas (Print Version)

Tender chicken, lemon, orzo, and sweet peas combine in one pot for a bright, comforting spring meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 14 oz), cut into 1-inch pieces

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Grains & Pasta

07 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta, uncooked

→ Dairy

08 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Liquids

10 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Oils & Seasonings

11 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
12 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until golden and just cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, add butter and onion. Sauté for 3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add orzo pasta to the pot and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
04 - Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Return the chicken to the pot along with peas, lemon zest, and juice. Stir thoroughly and cook uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes, until orzo is al dente and most liquid has absorbed.
06 - Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste.
07 - Serve warm, garnished with additional lemon zest or Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It&aposs a secret shortcut to spring flavors in under 40 minutes, with very little cleanup.
  • The orzo pulls everything together deliciously, so you get creamy comfort and a fresh finish with no fuss.
02 -
  • If you rush the orzo, it can turn mushy instead of creamy—always check for al dente at the end.
  • Adding lemon juice too early dulls the flavor; toss it in just before finishing for the freshest taste.
03 -
  • Always zest your lemon before juicing—it&aposs nearly impossible afterward.
  • Let the orzo sit for a few minutes after cooking to thicken gently before serving.
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