Walnut Crusted Chicken with Lemon Garlic Orzo
This easy one-pan lemon orzo pasta and walnut chicken dish is a super tasty and healthy option for busy weeknights!
Servings:4
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 2 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced basil
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, , pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
- 1/3 cup walnuts,, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup plain bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil, (or Italian seasoning)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in a large pan according to package's instructions. Transfer to a strainer and allow to drain while you prepare the chicken.
- In a small bowl combine finely chopped walnuts, breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, and dried basil (or italian seasoning) and whisk to combine. Toss chicken breasts in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Spray pan with cooking spray and cook chicken over medium heat until browned on both sides and cooked through. (about 4-5 minutes on each side)Transfer chicken to a plate and cover with a towel or with tin foil to keep warm.
- Add the 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan. Transfer drained orzo back to the pan and stir until hot. Add garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and basil and cook, stirring throughout, about 5 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with walnut crusted chicken and garnish with lemon wedges for drizzling if desired.