Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta (Easy One Pan Dinner!)

If you’re looking for a bright, fresh dinner, this lemon chicken orzo pasta recipe is exactly that. Everything comes together in one pan, and the result is a light but comforting meal packed with flavor.

The lemon keeps things fresh and the asparagus and artichokes make this feel like the perfect spring or summer weeknight dinner. It’s quick, balanced, and one of those recipes that tastes just as good for leftovers the next day.

If you like this dish, you should try my Summer Couscous SaladGreek Quinoa Bowl, Lemony One Pan Pasta with Salmon & Asparagus (no cream!)or Za’atar Chicken & Couscous.

Why You Will Love This Dinner

  • Fresh, light, and flavorful
  • Uses simple ingredients you already have
  • Delicious served warm or chilled
  • Great for meal prep or picnics

What do you need to make this Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta Recipe:

asparagus, artichoke, lemon feta
  • Orzo pasta – cooks quickly and gives the perfect tender texture for salads.
  • Asparagus – adds crunch and a pop of color.
  • Lemon – brings bright, fresh flavor to balance the richness.
  • Artichoke hearts – give a tangy, Mediterranean flavor.
  • Olive oil – coats the pasta and keeps it light.
  • Garlic powder – adds subtle savory depth.
  • Salt & black pepper – to season and enhance every bite.
  • Shredded chicken – boosts the protein and makes it a filling meal.
  • White wine vinegar – adds a refreshing acidity.
  • Feta cheese – creamy, salty, and the perfect finishing touch.

Substitutions and Variations

  • Swap asparagus for broccoli or zucchini.
  • Use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier flavor.
  • Add kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes for more Mediterranean flair.
  • Try with quinoa or couscous instead of orzo to make it gluten-free.

Super powers of Asparagus and Artichokes:

Asparagus and artichokes are both full of nutrients like Vitamin C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. They are great vegetables to help your liver detox and to support digestion.

How to make this Artichoke and Asparagus Pasta Salad:

  • Cook the orzo, then the asparagus.
  • Add the cooked asparagus to the bowl with the orzo, along with the shredded chicken and artichoke hearts.
  • In a small bowl or jar, make the dressing.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
  • Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Tips and Notes

  • Don’t overcook the orzo, you want it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy once dressed.
  • Rinse with cold water after cooking to keep the texture firm and stop the cooking process.
  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Chill before serving for the best flavor blend.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This salad keeps beautifully for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Can I serve it warm?
Absolutely, it’s delicious both warm or cold.

What’s the best pasta substitute?
You can use couscous, quinoa, or even short-cut pasta like ditalini.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Best served cold, but if you prefer warm, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or broth.
Tips: Add a squeeze of lemon before serving to refresh the flavors.

I hope you are Over the Spoon for this recipe!
It is my goal to inspire you to create healthy and easy meals.
It would mean the world if you could leave a review or a star rating below!

Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

Marissa
Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta is an easy one pan dinner with asparagus, artichokes, and feta. Ready in 30 minutes, bright, fresh, and full of flavor!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 405 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta, dry
  • 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 1 can artichoke hearts, chopped
  • 1 large lemon, juiced
  • 3 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 10 oz crumbled feta cheese
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Bring 3 cups of salted water to a boil in a large pan.
  • Add the orzo and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
  • Drain and rinse under cool water, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  • Cut the asparagus into 1-inch pieces. In the same pan, sauté with a drizzle of olive oil for 6–7 minutes, until tender.
  • Add the cooked asparagus to the bowl with the orzo, along with the shredded chicken and chopped artichoke hearts.
  • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, white wine vinegar, garlic powder, and salt.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
  • Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and crumbled feta cheese before serving.

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