One-Pot Lemon Orzo Chicken Peas (Printer-friendly)

Chicken, lemon, peas, and orzo cook together in one pot for quick, vibrant flavor and minimal cleanup.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

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

→ Vegetables

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

→ Grains & Pasta

07 - 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta

→ 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 as needed
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Directions:

01 - Warm olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and just cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, add unsalted butter and chopped onion. Sauté for 3 minutes until translucent, then stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
03 - Add uncooked orzo pasta and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
04 - Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and allow to simmer for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is nearly tender.
05 - Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add thawed peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Cook uncovered for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, or until orzo reaches al dente texture and most liquid is absorbed.
06 - Remove pot from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
07 - Plate warm, garnished with extra lemon zest or Parmesan cheese as desired.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • The punch of lemon cuts through the richness, making every bite taste like sunshine.
  • I never expected peas and Parmesan to suit chicken so well—now this is a go-to dish when friends drop by unannounced.
02 -
  • If you rush the broth step and don't cover, orzo can stick and turn gummy—I learned the hard way to stir gently and cover.
  • Waiting to add peas ensures they stay plump and vivid rather than fading, a detail that makes the dish pop visually.
03 -
  • Letting the chicken rest outside the pot keeps it tender and prevents overcooking before adding it back in with the lemon and peas.
  • Using both lemon zest and juice instead of just juice transforms the flavor and makes the dish feel brighter and more layered.
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