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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo One-Pan Dinner

A bright, creamy one-pan shrimp and orzo dinner with lemon, garlic, and Parmesan. Ready in under 30 minutes for an easy weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Shrimp
  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
Orzo & Sauce
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 onion small, chopped
  • 1 lemon zest + juice
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream optional
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tbsp parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the orzo to the skillet and toast lightly for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
  5. Push orzo to one side of the pan and add butter to the empty space. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  6. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream (if using). Add Parmesan cheese and stir until creamy.
  7. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
  8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add more Parmesan or a splash of cream. Swap shrimp for chicken if desired.