Unlike most recipes online, this one doesn't use cream to make it... creamy. It uses chicken broth to add a rich depth of flavor, some lemon zest, and seasoned chicken on the side.

Servings: About two; add or subtract 1/3 to 1/2 cup of Orzo and about 1/2 to 3/4^[1] cup of broth per serving to adjust, using the smaller size for smaller eaters.
We recommend making only as much orzo as you plan on eating during the meal, but if you refrigerate it, reheat it in a pan with some fresh broth to keep it from getting too mushy.

Ingredients

1. Orzo (1 cup)
2. Chicken broth (2 and 1/2 cups)
3. Lemon zest from one lemon
   1. You can add the juice for a sharper flavor
4. Chicken (breast or thighs or both!)

Recipe

Prep

1. Zest one lemon
2. Thaw chicken (if necessary), and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
   1. We usually add paprika, but you can exchange it for or add anything you want.

Method 1: Chicken first

1. Season both sides of the chicken and cook in a pan, 4 to 6 minutes on each side.
   1. We usually add paprika to the seasoning, but you should experiment.
2. Remove the chicken from the pan and cover it in foil to keep warm.
3. To the same pan, add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
4. Add the orzo and lemon zest, stirring occasionally, and cook until the liquid is fully absorbed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   1. As the orzo cooks, increase stirring to prevent orzo from sticking to the bottom.
   2. As it begins to thicken, reduce the heat incrementally, until at the end all the way to low.
5. Once the orzo is done, slice the chicken and serve immediately.

Method 2: Orzo first

1. Add the chicken broth to a pan and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the orzo and lemon zest, stirring occasionally, and cook until the liquid is fully absorbed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   1. As the orzo cooks, increase stirring to prevent orzo from sticking to the bottom.
   2. As it begins to thicken, reduce the heat incrementally, until at the end all the way to low.
3. In a separate pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil on medium to medium-high, and cook the chicken, 4-6 minutes on each side.
4. Once the orzo is done, slice the chicken and serve immediately.