When the day has stretched a little too long, and you want dinner to feel like a warm hug, this Garlic Butter Lemon Chicken Orzo hits the spot. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with the inviting scent of garlic and lemon, making everything feel a bit lighter and more cheerful.

I remember the first time I made this dish on a chilly evening. The moment the garlic hit the hot butter, the aroma curled around me like a soft blanket. As the chicken browned, its juices mingled with the zesty lemon, creating a bright, savory mix that felt both comforting and fresh. Stirring the orzo into the buttery sauce, I could almost taste the ease of the meal before it even reached the table. Sitting down to eat, I noticed how the tender chicken and creamy pasta paired perfectly, each bite bursting with flavor and a hint of sunshine. It was simple, yet special—exactly what I needed after a busy day.

One-pan convenience means less cleanup and more time to relax.
Bright lemon zest lifts the rich garlic butter sauce, balancing flavor beautifully.
Orzo cooks to a creamy texture that soaks up all the savory juices.
Tender chicken bites provide satisfying protein without fuss.
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.

If you’re worried about juggling too many tasks while cooking, this recipe is forgiving and straightforward. It easily fits into weeknight routines without demanding your full attention, so you can still enjoy the process without stress.

Garlic Butter Lemon Chicken Orzo

Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4

Print Recipe

Description

A flavorful and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a garlic butter sauce with lemon zest, served over creamy orzo pasta.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup water
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter.
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat the pasta with the garlic butter.
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the orzo.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

FAQ

Can I use other pasta instead of orzo? Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells can work well, but cooking times might vary slightly.

Is this dish freezer-friendly? It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days, as the creamy texture of the orzo changes after freezing.

Can I make this dairy-free? You can swap out butter for olive oil, though it will change the richness of the sauce.

How can I make this more filling? Adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach after cooking boosts nutrition and volume.

Ready to bring this cozy, flavorful dinner to your table? Give it a try tonight and see how a simple meal can brighten your evening.