Description
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo is a buttery, zesty, and satisfying one-skillet dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Tender orzo soaks up a lemony garlic sauce while seared shrimp add a protein-packed punch. A perfect meal for weeknights or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo pasta
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons butter, divided
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 1/4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper if using.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Sear shrimp in a single layer for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Lower heat to medium and add another tablespoon of butter. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add orzo and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden.
5. Pour in chicken broth. Scrape up browned bits from the skillet, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining tablespoon of butter. Return shrimp to skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
For best texture, cook orzo just to al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy when reheated.
Don’t overcook the shrimp—once they turn opaque and pink, they’re ready to come off the heat.
Toasting the orzo before adding broth gives it a rich, nutty depth that elevates the entire dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 175mg