Name: Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breasts, chopped into large bite size pieces; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 small onion, diced (or 1 tsp powder); 4 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp powder); 1 ½ cups orzo pasta (uncooked); 2 medium zucchini and/or yellow summer squash, grated (optional); 1 12 oz. can evaporated milk; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 3/4 cups low sodium chicken broth; Zest and juice of 1 large lemon (¼ cup juice); 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon or better than bouillon; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella; 1/4 cup feta; 1/4 cup chopped basil; 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill; 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley

Bright, creamy, and packed with cozy comfort, this Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe strikes the perfect balance between fresh and hearty. The zing of lemon wakes up tender chicken and cheesy orzo, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

A creamy risotto dish fills a large round white pan with light golden tones and small pieces of cooked chicken mixed throughout the thick rice. On top, three grilled lemon slices with charred marks rest near the center, surrounded by sprinkled white cheese crumbles and chopped green herbs. A small cluster of fresh basil leaves adds a pop of bright green near the lemon slices, and a gold spoon is placed on the left side of the pan. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a few scattered green leaves around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Honestly, this Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe has fast become one of my absolute favorites. It’s comfort food with a fresh twist that comes together quickly – perfect for nights when you want something nourishing but fuss-free.

Simple One-Pan Wonder: You make it all in a skillet (or a Dutch oven), so cleanup is a breeze and flavors blend beautifully.
Zesty Lemon Lift: The bright lemon juice and zest cut through the creamy texture, making every bite refreshing.
Customizable Comfort: Whether you add veggies, swap cheeses, or change up the protein, this recipe easily adapts to your tastes and pantry.
Family-Friendly: It’s cozy enough to feel like a treat but mild enough for picky eaters, making dinner a win-win.

A close-up image of creamy orzo pasta layered in a white bowl with a slightly rough edge; the orzo is light beige with small visible herbs mixed throughout, giving it a speckled green and black look. On top, there is a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh green herbs and small bits of white cheese, adding color contrast. To the side, a slice of grilled lemon with a golden-brown charred texture is resting over the orzo. The background shows a white marbled surface, adding a soft, clean look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and satisfying textures. From the tender chicken to the creamy orzo and fresh herbs, it’s a dish that feels thoughtfully layered yet approachable.

Flat lay of raw chopped chicken breast pieces seasoned with paprika and pepper, a small white bowl of olive oil, a small white bowl of butter, a small white bowl of minced fresh garlic cloves, a small white bowl of diced onion, a heap of uncooked orzo pasta, two fresh medium zucchinis, one large lemon sliced in half with visible zest, a small white bowl of evaporated milk, a small white bowl of cornstarch, a small white bowl of low sodium chicken broth, a small white bowl with a lump of chicken bouillon powder, a small white bowl of shredded mozzarella cheese, a small white bowl of crumbled feta cheese, fresh basil leaves, fresh dill sprigs, fresh parsley sprigs, all arranged symmetrically on simple white ceramic plates and bowls placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Chicken Breasts: They cook quickly and soak up all those lovely spices and lemon notes.
Paprika, Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that ensure the chicken is bursting with flavor without overpowering the lemon.
Olive Oil: For a nice sear and to bring everything together with a smooth finish.
Butter: Adds richness to the orzo sauté and ensures a silky consistency.
Onion & Garlic: Classic aromatics that create a flavor base full of depth.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and takes on a creamy, risotto-like texture when simmered with broth and milk.
Zucchini or Summer Squash: Optional but delicious, they add a fresh, sneaky veggie boost without overwhelming the dish.
Evaporated Milk & Chicken Broth: They come together to make the sauce creamy but not heavy—plus, chicken broth layers in savory goodness.
Cornstarch: The secret weapon to gently thicken the luscious sauce without clumping.
Lemon Zest & Juice: The star that brightens and lifts every bite with tangy, fresh citrus flavor.
Chicken Bouillon or Better Than Bouillon: Enhances the chicken broth’s depth, making the dish taste much more savory and satisfying.
Dried Thyme, Fresh Herbs, Mozzarella & Feta: Herbaceous notes and melty cheeses round out the dish with complexity and creamy texture.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love playing around with this Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe — it’s super versatile and perfect for adapting based on what’s in my fridge or what mood I’m in. You can easily make it brighter, cheesier, or even heartier.

Variation: One of my favorite swaps is using rotisserie chicken when I’m short on time; just stir it in at the end and skip the initial sear. It’s such a lifesaver on busy nights without sacrificing flavor.
Veggie Boost: Sometimes I add sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for a deeper, earthier note that plays beautifully with the lemon.
Cheese Swap: Gone up a notch by swapping feta for sharp Parmesan or even mixing in a little smoked Gouda for an unexpected twist.
Make It Creamier: Stir in a splash of cream or extra broth at the end for a truly luscious, almost risotto-like finish.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

First, I pat the chicken breasts dry and season them evenly with paprika, salt, and pepper right on the cutting board—this little trick helps keep things tidy and speeds the process. Heating up olive oil in my braiser until it shimmers, I add the chicken in one layer and sear until it’s mostly opaque. Don’t worry if it’s not cooked through yet; it’ll finish cooking later. Removing it to a plate lets you focus on the orzo base.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Aromatics and Orzo

In the same pan with the chicken drippings, I melt butter and sauté diced onion until soft and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Then I toss in the orzo, stirring so each grain gets coated and slightly toasted — this adds a lovely nuttiness. Next, in goes the grated zucchini for a subtle freshness and the minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are tender but the garlic isn’t browned. Trust me, this step layers in a ton of flavor while prepping the orzo for its creamy finish.

Step 3: Add Liquids, Season, and Simmer

Now it’s time to pour in evaporated milk — yes, it sounds unexpected, but this is what gives the dish its creamy texture without heaviness. I whisk chicken broth together with cornstarch to avoid lumps and add it in along with lemon zest, juice, chicken bouillon, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stirring the chicken back into the pot, I cover it and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Then I lower the heat and let it cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes to keep the orzo from sticking or burning. If the orzo isn’t quite tender yet and the liquid has mostly absorbed, I add a splash more broth to encourage that perfect creamy consistency.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Fresh Herbs

Once the orzo is tender and the sauce is luxuriously velvety, I stir in shredded mozzarella first, letting it melt smoothly into the mixture. Then feta and a generous handful of fresh basil, dill, and parsley go in, adding a bright herbal punch and creamy tang. I always taste and adjust any seasoning, maybe a splash more lemon juice or a pinch of salt and pepper, to make sure it sings just right. For an extra creamy finish, sometimes I swirl in a bit more broth or even a splash of cream here.

Top Tip

Over time, I’ve learned a few little secrets that make this Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe shine—and I want to share them so you get the best, creamiest result every time.

Don’t Skip the Chicken Bouillon: I tried this without it once, and the flavor felt flat—adding just a teaspoon makes the whole dish pop with savory depth.
Keep an Eye on the Orzo: Stir often during simmering to avoid sticking, and if it seems dry before the pasta is done, add broth gradually rather than all at once.
Use Fresh Herbs: They brighten the dish unlike dried herbs alone and give the lemony goodness a fresh garden finish.
Cheese Order Matters: Adding mozzarella first lets it melt fully and build creaminess before the tangy feta joins for a perfect balance.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I usually garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil for a silky finish. Sometimes I like to sprinkle a little crushed red pepper for mild heat or a few lemon zest curls on top to make it pop visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

This skillet meal stands beautifully on its own, but I often serve it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus for a simple, refreshing contrast. Crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, I’ve served this lemon chicken orzo in individual cast iron skillets topped with a sprig of fresh dill and a lemon wheel. It feels rustic yet elegant and is always a hit with guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and it keeps well for about 5 days. The orzo absorbs the sauce after chilling, so it might seem a bit thick when reheated.

Freezing

I don’t usually freeze this one because the texture of the orzo and creaminess changes after thawing—it tends to separate a bit, which can be tricky to fix.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm leftovers on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of broth or milk to bring back that silky texture. For smaller portions, the microwave works fine—heat in short bursts and stir between cycles to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Orzo works best here because it achieves a creamy, risotto-like texture when cooked with broth and milk. Using larger pasta might not cook evenly or absorb the sauce as well.

Is evaporated milk necessary? Can I substitute it?

Evaporated milk gives the dish creaminess without heaviness or needing extra cream. You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but it might yield a thinner sauce.

Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free orzo or substitute with a gluten-free small pasta like quinoa pasta or rice-shaped pasta. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What’s the best way to add vegetables?

Adding grated zucchini or summer squash works beautifully stirred right into the orzo while cooking. For sturdier veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, sauté them separately and stir in near the end to keep textures vibrant.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen rotation because it’s both comforting and bright, creamy yet fresh, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s the kind of meal that satisfies cravings and feels like a warm hug after a busy day. Give it a go—I bet it’ll become one of your new favorites too!