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Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli

Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli: 7 Irresistible Secrets


  • Author: basmer
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A delightful combination of lemon pepper chicken, broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta that brings brightness and heartiness to any dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (divided)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups small broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with black pepper, half the lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt until evenly coated.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the orzo pasta into the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute, allowing the pasta to lightly toast.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and remaining salt. Return the chicken to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Simmer for 8 minutes.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the broccoli florets. Cover again and cook for 3–4 minutes, until the broccoli is crisp-tender and the orzo is al dente.
  7. Stir in the butter, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, and remaining lemon zest. Stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
  8. Serve the skillet contents to serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 30 minutes
    • Category: Main Course
    • Method: Skillet
    • Cuisine: American

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 serving
    • Calories: 350
    • Sugar: 2g
    • Sodium: 800mg
    • Fat: 12g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Carbohydrates: 45g
    • Fiber: 2g
    • Protein: 25g
    • Cholesterol: 70mg

    Keywords: Lemon Pepper Chicken Broccoli