There’s comfort in a meal that feels bright and balanced but cooks in a single pan. This lemon herb chicken orzo does exactly that. It brings together tender chicken, silky orzo, and fresh lemon in a way that feels complete without extra steps or heavy sauces. A little olive oil, a squeeze of citrus, and the right herbs make it simple and satisfying.
Our Shawhan Farms Classic Poultry Seasoning gives the chicken its savory depth. Blended in small batches from rosemary, sage, and thyme, it is crafted to bloom in heat so the herbs infuse the dish as it cooks. You get layered flavor that tastes clean and fresh, never flat or salty.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into pieces
- 1 ½ teaspoons Shawhan Farms Classic Poultry Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup baby spinach or chopped kale
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Grated Parmesan or feta for serving (optional)
Directions
- Season and sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with Classic Poultry Seasoning and salt. Cook until golden on both sides, about 6 to 8 minutes total. Remove and set aside.
- Toast the orzo: Add remaining olive oil to the same skillet. Stir in the orzo and cook 2 to 3 minutes until lightly golden.
- Build the sauce: Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth, stirring to release any browned bits from the pan.
- Simmer: Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Finish bright: Stir in spinach, lemon juice, and zest. Taste and adjust seasoning. For extra depth, a small sprinkle of our Tuscan Black Garlic brings warm, savory contrast. Top with Parmesan if desired.
Kitchen Tip
Cooking orzo in the same pan where the chicken seared gives the pasta a toasted richness you cannot get in a separate pot. For an easy upgrade, add chopped artichokes or cherry tomatoes.
Learn more about how Mediterranean-style meals combine herbs, olive oil, and lean proteins for balanced flavor at Healthline.
Make It Yours
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or white beans.
- Use whole-wheat orzo or farro for more texture.
- Add a splash of white wine before the broth for a restaurant-style finish.
Find Tuscan Black Garlic Parm and all our small-batch blends at shawhanfarms.com →
Shawhan Farms
Proudly U.S. woman-owned. Born in Kentucky. Made with care in Texas.