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One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo

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This One Skillet Salmon Lemon Orzo is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. Juicy, seasoned salmon fillets are paired with creamy lemon garlic orzo—all made in one pan for easy cleanup. Fresh, elegant, and ready in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper, divided
  • 1 tsp salt, divided
  • 4 skinless salmon fillets
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat salmon dry; season with garlic powder, paprika, half the salt, and half the pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear salmon 3–4 minutes per side until golden and mostly cooked. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add remaining olive oil to skillet; sauté garlic until fragrant.
  4. Stir in orzo, thyme, remaining salt, and pepper; toast 1 minute.
  5. Add chicken broth; simmer, stirring occasionally, 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender and creamy.
  6. Stir in lemon juice and zest; return salmon to skillet. Cover and cook 2–3 minutes until salmon is fully cooked through.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Add spinach or kale to orzo for extra greens.
  • A sprinkle of Parmesan adds richness.
  • Substitute vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
  • Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep orzo creamy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/one-skillet-salmon-lemon-orzo/