One-Pot Lemon Orzo Chicken Peas (Print Version)

Tender chicken, lemon, orzo, and peas create a bright, comforting one-pot meal with easy cleanup and Mediterranean flavors.

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 14 oz), cut into 1-inch pieces

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Grains & Pasta

07 - 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta

→ Dairy

08 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Liquids

10 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Oils & Seasonings

11 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
12 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until golden and just cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, add butter and chopped onion. Sauté for 3 minutes until onion is translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.
03 - Stir in orzo pasta and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until lightly golden.
04 - Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Return the chicken to the pot along with peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well and cook uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
06 - Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning if needed.
07 - Serve warm, garnished with extra lemon zest or Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The cleanup is a breeze because everything comes together in a single pot.
  • The vibrant lemon and peas keep the dish from feeling heavy, making it perfect for spring evenings.
02 -
  • I learned the hard way not to overcook the orzo—it gets mushy fast if you’re distracted!
  • Add the peas and lemon near the end so they stay sweet and vibrant; it’s tempting to toss them in early, but waiting delivers better color and flavor.
03 -
  • Always zest the lemon before juicing—it’s nearly impossible to do afterward.
  • Swapping shrimp for chicken makes this a showstopper for summer gatherings.
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