Description
A light and refreshing pasta dish made with orzo, tender chicken, fresh basil, and a zesty lemon flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a warm-weather meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth or water (for cooking orzo)
Instructions
- Cook the orzo in chicken broth or water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cooked diced chicken to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in the cooked orzo, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring until everything is well combined and heated.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra basil or cheese if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a variation.
- Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
- Use whole wheat orzo for a healthier version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg