Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a delightful and simple dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy orzo in a bright lemon sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying. The flavors blend so nicely, making it a family favorite that even picky eaters will enjoy. Plus, it looks beautiful served in a bowl, bringing a bit of warmth to your dinner table.

Why You Will Love This Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo

This recipe is a gem for busy families. It’s quick to prepare, using everyday ingredients you likely have on hand. The flavor is refreshing and comforting, thanks to the lemon and pepper. It’s also one-pot cooking, which means less cleanup for everyone. Most importantly, it’s a hearty meal that will keep everyone satisfied.

How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Making this dish is straightforward and stress-free. You’ll cook chicken and veggies in one skillet, which helps all those wonderful flavors soak in. It’s a simple method that’s perfect for beginner cooks and offers delicious results without complicated techniques.

What You Need

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups small broccoli florets
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons lemon juice
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step

Toss chicken pieces with black pepper, half the lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon salt until evenly coated.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
Add onion to skillet and cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened. Incorporate garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir orzo into onion mixture and cook for 1 minute, allowing pasta to lightly toast.
Pour in chicken broth and remaining salt. Return chicken to skillet and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Simmer for 8 minutes.
Uncover skillet and stir in broccoli florets. Cover again and cook for 3–4 minutes, until broccoli is crisp-tender and orzo is al dente.
Fold in butter, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and remaining lemon zest. Stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
Transfer skillet contents to serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo

This dish shines when served warm, either as a main course or a comforting side. You might enjoy it with a simple garden salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It also pairs well with a light glass of white wine for the adults.

How to Store Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo

To keep leftovers fresh, store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish should be consumed within 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.

Recipe Tips

Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
Adjust the amount of lemon zest and juice according to your taste.
If you’d like a little spice, consider adding red pepper flakes.
Substitute quinoa for orzo for a healthier grain option.
Feel free to swap broccoli with other veggies, like peas or spinach, depending on what you have.

Variations & Swaps

You can use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with firm tofu.
Try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and orzo mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just heat it up on the stovetop, adding the broccoli and finishing touches as directed.

Can I freeze leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept frozen for up to three months.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat the orzo in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it from becoming too dry during reheating.

Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Of course! Feel free to mix and match vegetables. Peas, bell peppers, or spinach could be great alternatives to broccoli.

What are some common mistakes to avoid?
A common mistake is overcooking the orzo or chicken. Keep an eye on the cooking times to ensure everything is tender without becoming mushy.