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One-Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken & Broccoli Orzo

Tender chicken, creamy orzo, and crisp broccoli with bright lemon pepper flavors, all cooked together in one skillet for an easy, high-protein dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1.5 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets chopped small
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter divided
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1.5 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice plus zest of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or sauté pan
  • Lid for skillet
  • wooden spoon
  • knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Toss chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add dry orzo and garlic. Toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until orzo is fragrant and slightly golden.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and remaining lemon pepper seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes.
  5. About 5 minutes into simmering, stir in broccoli florets. Cover and continue cooking until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  6. Stir in cooked chicken, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until a light, creamy sauce forms.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Storage: Leftovers keep for up to 3 days refrigerated. Add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the pasta. Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for more moisture. Replace butter with olive oil for lighter version. Small pasta shapes like ditalini work using same method. Shrimp can replace chicken. Serving Suggestions: Pairs beautifully with crusty bread, simple green salad, or crisp white wine. Pro Tip: If orzo absorbs liquid too quickly before tender, add extra 1/4 cup broth or water and keep lid on for another minute. Toast the orzo in butter and garlic for best flavor.