One-Skillet Lemon Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken & Spring Orzo: Your Ultimate Easy Weeknight Meal

Embrace the vibrant flavors of spring with this incredible one-skillet lemon goat cheese stuffed chicken and spring orzo recipe. Combining fresh seasonal produce with readily available pantry staples, this dish delivers a burst of flavor in every juicy bite. Best of all, it comes together in just over 30 minutes, all in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe serves 4 and promises a delightful culinary experience without the fuss.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by GRIZZLY Cookware. As always, all opinions are my own.

This dish truly embodies the essence of spring, making it the ultimate one-skillet meal for the season. It’s loaded with my favorite vibrant spring vegetables, including crisp asparagus, tender kale, and sweet peas. But the star of the show? A creamy, tangy, and irresistibly fresh goat cheese filling tucked inside each perfectly cooked chicken breast. Seriously, I can’t get enough of this flavor combination right now. The bright lemon notes cut through the richness of the cheese and the earthy vegetables, creating a symphony of tastes that awakens the palate. It’s an experience that makes you feel like you’re dining al fresco, even if you’re enjoying it from the comfort of your kitchen.

I find myself gravitating towards these fresh, seasonal flavors even more intensely these days, perhaps because it’s a way to truly experience the season when outdoor opportunities are limited. There might not be picnics in the park with friends, or lively patio meals amidst the hustle and bustle of a vibrant city. Instead, our homes have become our havens, and cooking has transformed into a cherished ritual, a source of comfort, and a wonderful way to connect with the world around us.

The Joy of Spring Flavors at Home

So, if the outside world is a bit quieter than usual, I’m committed to bringing the vibrant, life-affirming flavors of spring directly into our homes. This isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating a sense of normalcy, joy, and connection through food. Cooking has a unique power, especially now, to unite us. When I hear about you all trying my recipes, experimenting with new ingredients, or simply finding happiness in your kitchens, it’s genuinely inspiring. It reminds me that even in challenging times, food can be a profound source of creativity and comfort.

I’m dedicated to providing you with the tools, tips, and inspiration to make the most of your home cooking adventures. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve likely seen my recent posts sharing advice on everything from freezing seasonal vegetables to maximizing pantry staples. More of those helpful tidbits are always on the way!

Today, right here on the blog, I want to dive into a topic near and dear to my heart: cast iron cookware. From my earliest days in my grandma’s kitchen, I was taught the unparalleled virtues of cooking with cast iron. She swore by it, no matter what she was preparing, and for good reason. Cast iron boasts incredible heat retention, exceptional durability, and a versatility that makes it stand out from all other cookware options. It distributes heat evenly, ensuring everything from perfectly seared meats to beautifully caramelized vegetables. Plus, a well-cared-for cast iron skillet can become a treasured heirloom, passed down through generations.

Embracing Cast Iron Cooking

Of course, traditional cast iron used to come with a bit of a learning curve, requiring diligent seasoning and careful upkeep. For many, the thought of seasoning a pan or worrying about rust was enough to deter them from experiencing its magic. However, the world of cookware has evolved, and thankfully, modern innovations have made cast iron more accessible and user-friendly than ever before.

This is precisely why I am absolutely thrilled to announce my partnership with GRIZZLY Cookware! They’ve revolutionized cast iron, and I’m delighted to bring you this gorgeous one-skillet lemon goat cheese stuffed chicken and spring orzo recipe, made effortlessly with their incredible pan. For this particular recipe, I used the GRIZZLY 12” Cast Iron Skillet, and I can honestly say it was a dream to work with. What sets GRIZZLY Cookware apart is its innovative coating; their cast iron is sealed with a unique nickel finish, making it inherently resistant to rust and eliminating the need for you to ever season the pan yourself. Unlike enamel coatings that can chip over time, GRIZZLY’s nickel coating is incredibly durable and, most importantly, 100% safe for cooking, having received approval from the FDA. This means all the benefits of cast iron—superior heat retention and even cooking—without any of the traditional fuss. Simply hand wash the skillet after use, and you’re good to go. It truly reimagines the cast iron experience, making it accessible and enjoyable for every home cook.

I truly cannot rave enough about this pan, my friends. While I’ve always appreciated and worked with cast iron, it has only recently become my go-to, primary cookware, largely thanks to GRIZZLY. With this skillet, you achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior on your chicken, while simultaneously cooking the orzo and vegetables to tender perfection, all within the same pan. It’s an unparalleled convenience and quality that elevates your cooking. For those seeking a delicious vegetarian option, you might also love this one pot creamy chickpea and spinach orzo, perfect for a meatless Monday!

Essential Tools for Your Kitchen

To successfully bring this vibrant one-skillet meal to life, having the right tools makes all the difference. Obviously, the absolute must-have is the GRIZZLY 12” Cast Iron Skillet, which you’ve seen featured prominently here today. It’s a truly worthwhile investment that will serve you faithfully for years to come, enabling countless delicious meals with its superior performance and easy maintenance.

Beyond the star skillet, here are a few other essential tools that will streamline your cooking process:

• A sharp **chef’s knife** and two **cutting boards**: one for preparing your chicken to prevent cross-contamination, and another for finely chopping herbs and slicing vegetables. This ensures safety and efficiency in your kitchen prep.
• The smallest of your **mixing bowls**: perfect for quickly stirring together the creamy, tangy goat cheese filling for the chicken. Its compact size helps ensure all ingredients are well combined.
• Reliable **clongs (aka tongs)**: these are indispensable for safely turning the chicken breasts as they sear, ensuring an even golden-brown crust without damaging the stuffed filling. A sturdy spatula can also be helpful for careful flipping.
• A durable **wooden spoon**: ideal for stirring the orzo, garlic, and spring vegetables in the skillet, ensuring everything is well coated and cooked perfectly without scratching your beautiful cast iron.

Here’s more recipes to make in your cast iron skillet! Short Rib Mexican Skillet Pie | Whiskey Skillet Brownie | Spicy Italian Stuffed Peppers | Brown Butter Gnocchi with Asparagus

Crafting Your One-Skillet Masterpiece: Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing the Flavorful Filling

The secret to this chicken’s incredible flavor starts with its bright and tangy goat cheese filling. In a small bowl, combine soft goat cheese crumbles with freshly chopped basil and thyme – these herbs infuse the cheese with aromatic depth. A touch of salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes add just the right amount of seasoning and a subtle warmth. Finally, the zest and juice of fresh lemon are key, providing that delightful citrusy zing that perfectly complements the goat cheese and brightens the entire dish. Stir everything together until well combined and set it aside, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Stuffing the Chicken Breasts

Next, we prepare the chicken. Carefully butterfly each boneless, skinless chicken breast by slicing it horizontally through the middle. The trick is to leave about half an inch uncut on one side, allowing you to open the breast up like a book. This creates a perfect pocket for our delicious filling. Evenly spread the goat cheese mixture onto one half of each butterflied chicken breast, ensuring an even distribution among all four. Then, gently fold the empty side of the chicken breast back over the filling, encasing it snugly. Lightly season the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with a bit more salt and pepper, preparing them for their golden-brown sear.

Perfectly Browning the Chicken

In your GRIZZLY cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This initial searing step is crucial for developing a rich, golden crust and locking in the chicken’s juices, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Allow them to sear undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until they are beautifully browned. Resist the urge to fiddle with them too much; letting them cook without interruption helps achieve that desirable crispy exterior. When flipping, do so gently to keep the filling intact. Once both sides are golden, remove the chicken to a plate and set it aside; it will finish cooking in the oven later.

Building the Spring Orzo Base

Now, it’s time to create the flavorful orzo base. In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and dry orzo pasta, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is lightly toasted and fragrant. This step adds a wonderful nutty depth to the pasta. Next, stir in the chicken broth, roughly chopped kale, and asparagus pieces. Bring this mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquids to start absorbing into the orzo. Finally, stir in the thawed and drained frozen peas, adding a pop of color and sweetness to the dish. This vibrant mixture will become the comforting bed for our stuffed chicken.

Baking to Perfection

One of the many benefits of GRIZZLY cast iron cookware is its oven-safe design, allowing it to go straight from the stovetop to the oven with ease. Carefully nestle the browned, stuffed chicken breasts back into the orzo mixture in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F (74˚C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat. By this point, the orzo will be tender and creamy, having absorbed all the rich flavors of the broth and vegetables. Once done, remove from the oven and prepare to indulge in this comforting and delicious one-skillet meal. NOW EAT and savor every bite of this delightful spring creation!

Need inspiration for cooking chicken? Check out my poultry recipes page for some tasty ideas.

Customizing Your Meal: Adaptations & Substitutions

I understand that sometimes it can be tricky to get your hands on specific ingredients, especially with current circumstances. But don’t let that stop you from enjoying this fantastic recipe! This dish is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to make simple modifications based on what you have available or your personal preferences. Here are some suggestions to “make it your own” while still enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal:

• **Orzo Alternatives:** Can’t find orzo pasta? No problem! Arborio rice is an excellent substitute, which will give your dish a creamier, risotto-like texture. Other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even small couscous can also work, though they might require slight adjustments to cooking times and liquid amounts. For a gluten-free option, consider quinoa, which will add a lovely nutty flavor and boost the protein content.
• **Frozen vs. Fresh Vegetables:** While fresh kale and asparagus are fantastic, you can absolutely use frozen versions for this recipe. Simply thaw and drain them well before incorporating them into the skillet to prevent excess moisture from making the dish watery. Frozen peas can be added directly or thawed quickly under warm water. Feel free to experiment with other spring vegetables too, such as chopped broccoli, spinach (stirred in at the end), or even sliced leeks.
• **Cheese Alternatives:** Not a fan of goat cheese, or simply don’t have any? Feta cheese is a superb substitute, offering a similar tangy and crumbly texture. Cream cheese can provide a milder, creamier filling, while ricotta cheese mixed with a little Parmesan would offer a softer, richer profile. Don’t hesitate to use what you love!
• **Herb Variations:** If basil and thyme aren’t readily available, fresh parsley, dill, or even a hint of dried Italian herbs can be used in the goat cheese mixture. Adjust to your taste!
• **Additional Flavor Boosters:** Consider stirring in a tablespoon or two of chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the goat cheese filling for an extra layer of savory depth. A handful of fresh spinach can also be wilted into the orzo mixture along with the kale for added greens and nutrients.
• **Protein Swaps:** While chicken breasts are ideal, you could also adapt this recipe using thin-cut pork chops or turkey cutlets, adjusting cooking times as needed to ensure they are cooked through.

One Skillet Lemon Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken and Spring Orzo

Bright and tangy chicken with orzo loaded with spring vegetables is the ideal one skillet meal!

Prep Time: 10 minutes mins

Cook Time: 25 minutes mins

Total Time: 35 minutes mins

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equipment

• Dreamfarm Clongs 12-Inch
• Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
• Organic Bamboo Cutting Board
• Utility Cutting Board
• Wusthof 8″ Artisan Butcher Knife, Hollow Edge

ingredients

• 4 oz goat cheese crumbles
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 tsp salt plus more for seasoning
• 1/4 tsp black pepper plus more for seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic minced or grated
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 bunch kale stalks removed and roughly chopped
• 2 cup chopped asparagus cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 1/2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup frozen peas thawed and drained
• Lemon wedges for serving

instructions

• Preheat oven to 425˚F (220˚C).
• In a small bowl, stir together goat cheese, basil, thyme, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined. Set aside.
• Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally through the middle, stopping about 1/2-inch before cutting all the way through, so it opens like a book. Spread the goat cheese mixture evenly on one side of each breast, dividing the filling equally among the four. Fold the empty side of the chicken over the filling to enclose it. Season the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with additional salt and pepper.
• In a large, oven-safe skillet (like your GRIZZLY cast iron skillet) over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side until they are beautifully golden brown. Be careful when flipping the breasts to ensure the filling remains tucked inside. Remove the browned chicken to a plate and set aside.
• Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and dry orzo pasta. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is lightly toasted and fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth, roughly chopped kale, and chopped asparagus. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in the thawed and drained peas.
• Carefully place the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them gently into the orzo and vegetable mixture. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and registers an internal temperature of 165˚F (74˚C) with a meat thermometer, and the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for a final burst of bright flavor. Enjoy your delicious one-skillet spring meal!

Cuisine: Spring

Category: Poultry