Print

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo with Spinach Recipe

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo with Spinach Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 21 reviews

A flavorful and healthy Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo with Spinach recipe that combines tender grilled chicken breasts seasoned with garlic, oregano, and paprika, served over a bed of lemon-infused orzo pasta and fresh sautéed spinach, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a bright, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Orzo & Spinach

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts to ensure full flavor infusion.
  2. Grill or Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5 to 6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the meat is no longer pink. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Prepare the orzo pasta according to package instructions, usually boiling it until tender but still slightly firm, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the orzo and set aside.
  4. Sauté Spinach and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the fresh spinach and sauté until wilted, approximately 1 minute.
  5. Combine Orzo Mixture: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well to combine and warm through.
  6. Serve: Plate the lemon herb orzo with spinach, then top with the sliced grilled chicken breasts. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh finishing touch.

Notes

  • For extra zest, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while cooking the spinach.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth instead of water to cook the orzo for added flavor.
  • Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
  • To keep the dish gluten-free, replace orzo with gluten-free pasta varieties like quinoa pasta.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Grilled lemon herb chicken, orzo pasta, spinach, healthy dinner, Mediterranean chicken recipe, quick chicken meal

Find it online: https://maicook.com/grilled-lemon-herb-chicken-orzo-with-spinach-recipe/