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Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli Orzo

A quick and tasty dish combining juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and delicious orzo, perfect for lunch or dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pieces chicken breasts Skinless, boneless preferred
  • 1 cup orzo pasta Can substitute with small pasta shapes
  • 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh is preferred
  • 1 pieces lemon (juice and zest) Adds flavor and brightness
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking chicken
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper Adjust to taste
  • to taste Salt To season chicken
  • to taste Parmesan cheese for serving Optional

Method
 

Cooking Chicken
  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and cracked black pepper.
  3. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
  4. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cooking Orzo
  1. In the same skillet, add the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add 3 cups of water and the zest of the lemon; bring to a boil.
  3. Stir in the broccoli florets and cook until the orzo is tender and water is absorbed, about 8-10 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan.
  2. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and stir to combine.

Notes

Serve hot with grated Parmesan and enjoy with a side salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat with a bit of water if needed.