Save to Pinterest Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo brings together shredded chicken, aromatic herbs, and silky orzo in a luxurious lemon cream sauce. This one-pan meal is perfect for quick dinners or elegant lunches, blending comfort and brightness in every bite.
I made this dish after picking up a rotisserie chicken on a busy weeknight—the creamy lemon sauce with fresh thyme instantly made it feel restaurant-worthy! Orzo creates the perfect texture, and everyone in my family went for seconds.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Shallot: 1 small, finely chopped
- Orzo pasta: 200 g (1 cup)
- Chicken broth: 500 ml (2 cups), low-sodium
- Shredded rotisserie chicken: 250 g (2 cups)
- Heavy cream: 150 ml (⅔ cup)
- Lemon: Juice and zest of 1
- Dijon mustard (optional): 1 tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: To taste
- Fresh thyme: 1 tbsp, chopped
- Fresh basil (or parsley): 1 tbsp, chopped
- Grated Parmesan (optional): For topping
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté garlic and shallot for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toast the orzo:
- Add orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Simmer with broth:
- Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer and cook 7–8 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Add chicken and cream:
- Stir in shredded chicken, heavy cream, lemon juice and zest, mustard if using, salt, and pepper. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Finish with herbs:
- Stir in thyme and basil. Adjust seasoning. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan if desired.
Save to Pinterest This creamy orzo is now a favorite for casual Sunday lunches and special family celebrations. Even picky eaters love the bright, citrusy sauce, making it a regular request in our home.
Required Tools
Large skillet with lid, wooden spoon, citrus zester.
Allergen Information
Contains: gluten (orzo), dairy (cream, Parmesan).
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories approx 460, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 35 g, Protein 28 g.
Save to Pinterest Add chopped herbs just before serving for maximum freshness, and don&t skip the Parmesan if you love a savory finish!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent orzo from sticking during cooking?
Use constant stirring when toasting and simmering orzo to keep grains separate. Adequate broth helps prevent clumping.
- → Can I replace rotisserie chicken with another protein?
Yes, cooked turkey, shredded beef, or even extra mushrooms for a vegetarian option can be used in place of chicken.
- → What herbs pair best with lemon and cream in this dish?
Fresh thyme and basil provide great flavor. Parsley or tarragon also complement lemony, creamy sauces well.
- → Is it possible to make a lighter version?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Use less Parmesan and add spinach for extra nutrition.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cool completely and refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen.
- → Can gluten-free pasta be used?
Substitute gluten-free orzo or small pasta shapes. Adjust liquid and cooking time as needed for texture.