Chicken, Broccoli & Lemon Orzo

After our cookie swap at work yesterday, I was in dire need of some vegetables and protein. I braved the snow/Massachusetts' drivers after work to do some Christmas shopping, and then came home and wanted a healthy, yet quick dinner. I had some orzo in the pantry, leftover chicken in the fridge, and frozen broccoli, so I was able to whip up a nutritious dinner in no time.

Chicken, Broccoli & Lemon Orzo
Yields: 2 servings

-1/3 cup orzo, uncooked
-1 pre-cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
-1 cup frozen broccoli
-1 tsp. minced garlic
-Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt and black pepper, to taste
-Several squirts lemon juice
-Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:
1.) Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil; pour in orzo.
2.) In a saucepan, heat up olive oil. Add broccoli, and let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until no longer completely frozen.
3.) Add chicken to the saucepan; stir. Season with spices; add garlic. Let cook for 1-2 minutes.
4.) Add lemon juice to the saucepan; cook off for 30 seconds, then bring heat down to a simmer.
5.) Once the orzo is done cooking, add it to the saucepan and stir. Sprinkle with a generous amount of Parmesan cheese. Scoop into bowls and enjoy!

After gorging on cookies all afternoon, this light, flavorful dish of pasta was oh-so satisfying. The combination of the simple chicken, broccoli, lemon and cheese was so refreshing and tasty. I'm looking forward to the leftovers for lunch later this week!

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