Name: Lemon Rosemary Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Orzo
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each); 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 2 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups baby spinach; Salt and pepper, to taste

Lemon Rosemary Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Orzo

PickledBerry0327

This Lemon Rosemary Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a vibrant, Italian-inspired dinner that comes together quickly and easily. The dish layers classic Mediterranean flavors—zesty lemon, aromatic rosemary, and savory Parmesan—creating a harmonious and complex profile. Toasting the orzo in garlic-infused olive oil adds depth, while spinach and tomatoes provide both color and nutrition. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful, soaking up the bright, citrusy notes. It's a meal that feels special but is easy enough for any weeknight, and the one-pan approach means less cleanup, too. Perfect for California's seasonal produce and busy lifestyles!

Ingredients

Instructions

Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and half of the rosemary.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring often.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is just tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Add cherry tomatoes and spinach to the skillet. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften slightly. Stir in lemon juice, remaining rosemary, and Parmesan cheese.
Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Cover and let everything warm together for 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve chicken atop the orzo mixture, garnished with extra Parmesan and a lemon wedge if desired.