Lemon Chicken Orzo

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2-inch thickness
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Lemon slices for garnish
• Chopped Italian parsley for garnish

Optional additions:

• 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped olives
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Cook chicken: Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Sauté vegetables: Melt butter in the same skillet. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
3. Cook orzo: Add orzo to the skillet and toast for a few minutes. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until orzo is tender.
4. Combine ingredients: Stir in spinach, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for a few more minutes until heated through.
5. Serve: Add sliced chicken to the orzo mixture. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley.

Optional additions:

• For extra flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• For a richer texture: Use a combination of heavy cream and mascarpone cheese.
• For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Garlic Orzo with Chicken!