When the day winds down and the kitchen fills with the scent of garlic butter and bright lemon, you know a comforting meal is on its way. This Garlic Butter Lemon Chicken Orzo captures that exact feeling — simple ingredients transformed into something that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

One evening last week, I remember how the golden chicken sizzled gently in the skillet while the garlic released its fragrant aroma, mingling with the tangy notes of lemon zest. The orzo cooked nearby, soaking up every bit of buttery goodness until it was perfectly tender and creamy. Sitting down to eat, the first bite was a moment of pure contentment—the juicy chicken paired with the velvety pasta, brightened by fresh parsley. It was the kind of meal that makes you pause, savor, and wish you had more time to linger at the table.

All cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze after a busy day.
Bright lemon and garlic flavors that lift simple chicken and pasta into something special.
Comforting and creamy orzo that absorbs every bit of buttery sauce.
Ready in just over half an hour, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to every bite.

If you’re worried about juggling multiple dishes or complicated steps, this recipe keeps things straightforward without sacrificing flavor. It’s a reliable go-to whenever you want something satisfying and homey.

Garlic Butter Lemon Chicken Orzo

Print Recipe

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

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
Heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and foamy.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it in the garlic butter mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice until the cheese is melted and the orzo is creamy.
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm the chicken through.
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Orzo works best here for its shape and texture, but small pastas like acini di pepe or even couscous can be good substitutes.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, using gluten-free orzo or a small gluten-free pasta will work well.

How can I keep the chicken juicy?
Patting the chicken dry and not overcrowding the pan helps it brown nicely and retain moisture.

Can leftovers be reheated?
Definitely. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep the orzo creamy.

This Garlic Butter Lemon Chicken Orzo is a true weeknight winner. When you’re ready to bring that comforting, bright flavor to your table, give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a favorite.