Begin by cutting the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. This size ensures they cook through quickly and evenly. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces in a single layer. This helps achieve a nice, golden crust.
Cook the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes without stirring. This allows it to get that beautiful sear. After 3 to 4 minutes, stir and continue cooking until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about another 3 to 4 minutes. It’s okay if it’s not fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking later.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Then, add the orzo and stir it around for a couple of minutes until it starts to turn lightly golden. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Next, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Stir to combine everything, making sure to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
Bring this delicious mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Remove the lid, and give the orzo a good stir. This step is crucial, as it helps release any bits that may be sticking to the bottom of the pan. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the parmesan cheese and fresh spinach.
Continue cooking for a few minutes until the spinach has wilted and the chicken is heated through. The parmesan cheese will melt into the sauce, making it wonderfully creamy.
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your Creamy Lemon Orzo with Chicken with some lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. Serve it hot and enjoy!
