Name: Italian Chicken Piccata with Lemon Spinach Orzo
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 medium breasts); 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked); 3 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 lemons (zested and juiced); 3 cups baby spinach; 1/4 cup capers (drained); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Italian Chicken Piccata with Lemon Spinach Orzo

SilkyApple9348

This Italian-inspired Chicken Piccata with Lemon Spinach Orzo is both protein-packed and bursting with vibrant flavors. Golden seared chicken is simmered in a tangy lemon-caper sauce, balancing richness with bright acidity—a nod to classic Italian cooking principles. The orzo, tossed with fresh spinach, provides a comforting base that soaks up the luscious sauce. Designed for both novice and intermediate cooks, this meal comes together in about 35 minutes and is sure to satisfy with every bite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for a cozy dinner with your partner.

Ingredients

Instructions

Butterfly chicken breasts horizontally to make cutlets. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken cutlets in batches until golden and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
In the same skillet, add capers and sauté for 1 minute. Deglaze pan with lemon juice and zest, scraping up brown bits. Add chicken broth and simmer for 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over, and simmer 2 minutes to meld flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more lemon to taste.
Meanwhile, cook orzo according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes, add spinach to wilt. Drain and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil and a pinch of salt.
Plate orzo and spinach, top with chicken and sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra lemon slices.