Print

Crispy Lemon Herb Chicken with Creamy Spinach Orzo

crispy lemon herb chicken - featured image
Print Recipe

This easy dinner recipe features golden, crispy lemon herb chicken thighs served over a bed of creamy, garlicky spinach orzo. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together in under 45 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon (about 1 tablespoon zest, 2 tablespoons juice, divided)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced (for chicken)
  • 1 tablespoon each fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried of each), divided
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for orzo)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for orzo)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for orzo)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and half the herbs. Let sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear without moving for 6-8 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and releases easily. Flip and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Scatter minced garlic and remaining herbs over the chicken. Transfer skillet to the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Remove chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to rest.
  5. Return skillet to stovetop over medium heat (do not clean). Add 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add orzo and stir to coat in oil and garlic for about 1 minute.
  7. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring often, for 7-9 minutes until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
  8. Stir in chopped spinach and cook 1-2 minutes until wilted. Add heavy cream, parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook another 2-3 minutes, stirring, until creamy and thickened. Add more broth or cream if needed.
  9. Spoon creamy spinach orzo onto plates. Top with crispy lemon herb chicken. Garnish with more herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon if desired.

Notes

Pat chicken dry for extra crispy skin. Use gluten-free orzo and coconut cream for dietary adaptations. Let chicken rest after roasting for juicier meat. Stir orzo frequently and add more broth if it thickens too quickly. Garnish with extra herbs and lemon for freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon herb chicken, creamy spinach orzo, easy dinner, skillet chicken, weeknight meal, comfort food, one pan, family dinner, chicken thighs, orzo recipe

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/crispy-lemon-herb-chicken-with-creamy-spinach-orzo-easy-dinner-recipe/