Creamy, flavorful orzo tossed with tender shrimp, spinach, Parmesan, and fresh lemon for a satisfying one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. 👏
This creamy Lemon Shrimp Orzo combines juicy shrimp, savory garlic, fresh lemon, Parmesan, and spinach with tender orzo. Everything comes together in one pan for an easy, flavorful dinner without the stress of multiple pans.
Macros per serving: 433 calories | 25g protein | 25g carbs | 14g fat
Ingredients
🦐 For the Shrimp
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• Zest of ½ lemon
• 1 tsp lemon pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• Dash of cayenne
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
🍋 For the Orzo
• 2 tbsp “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter” Lite
• 1 sweet yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
• 2 tsp lemon pepper
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 3 tbsp minced garlic, or to taste
• 1 cup dry orzo
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup skim milk
• 2 handfuls fresh spinach
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Zest of ½ lemon + juice of ½ lemon
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the shrimp
Season the shrimp with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon pepper, paprika, red pepper flakes, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Let marinate for 5–10 minutes.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics
In the same pan, add the butter, diced onion, garlic, and seasonings. Sauté until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Cook the orzo
Add the dry orzo and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in the white wine, chicken broth, and skim milk. Stir well and simmer until the orzo is tender and creamy, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the spinach & shrimp
Turn off the heat. Fold in the cooked shrimp, spinach, Parmesan, parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
5. Serve
Mix everything together until well combined. Serve warm and enjoy! 🦐🍋
Tips & Notes
• Don't overcook the shrimp — remove them from the pan as soon as they're cooked through.
• Toasting the orzo before adding the liquids helps add extra flavor.
• Stir the orzo occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes and cayenne to your preferred spice level.
• Fresh lemon juice and zest add a bright flavor that balances the creamy Parmesan.
• If the orzo becomes too thick, add a small splash of chicken broth or milk.
💬 Would you try this Lemon Shrimp Orzo?