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lemon pesto chicken and orzo pasta

Quick Lemon Pesto Chicken and Orzo Pasta

This Lemon Pesto Chicken and Orzo Pasta dish offers a lively mix of fresh, bright flavors and comforting textures, perfect for those nights when you want something both quick and satisfying. Enjoy every bite!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 730 kcal

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • boiling pot
  • saute pan

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Marinade

  • 8 oz boneless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons Trader Joe's Lemon Pesto Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon red vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Orzo Pasta

  • 3/4 cup dried orzo pasta
  • 1 shallot (peeled and thinly sliced)
  • 1 roma tomato (diced)
  • 4 cups baby spinach
  • 1 tablespoon Trader Joe's Lemon Pesto Sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • microgreens (or choice of herbs) optional

Instructions
 

  • Marinate the Chicken: Combine Trader Joe's Lemon Pesto sauce, red vinegar, honey,  salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for the best flavor infusion.
  • Prepare the Orzo Pasta: While the chicken marinates, cook the dried orzo pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside
  • Sauté the Shallots and Tomatoes: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the sliced shallots and diced Roma tomato for 1-2 minutes until softened.
  • Mix in the Pasta and Spinach: Add the cooked orzo and 1 tablespoon of lemon pesto sauce to the pan, stirring until well combined. Add the baby spinach and cook until just wilted. Transfer the pasta mixture to a bowl.
  • Cook the Chicken: In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of olive oil. Pan-fry the marinated chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Serve and Garnish: Serve the chicken with the flavorful orzo pasta. Garnish with microgreens or fresh herbs for a vibrant finishing touch.

Notes

Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used. Please consult with your healthcare provider for specific dietary needs. To gain a better understanding, explore our nutrition disclaimer here

Nutrition

Calories: 730kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 29gFat: 42gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 113mgSodium: 934mgPotassium: 820mgFiber: 4gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 6428IUVitamin C: 22mgCalcium: 127mgIron: 4mg