One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo – Quick & Flavorful

It’s a Tuesday night, the kind where time feels short and hunger feels big. You want something warm, bright, and just a little special without juggling three pots. That’s where this one skillet salmon with lemon orzo comes in. A single pan, a handful of fresh flavors, and dinner’s ready before you’ve even finished setting the table.

Why This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Works

This dish has the perfect balance. The salmon is tender with a hint of paprika warmth. The orzo is creamy and comforting with Parmesan melting in. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients while lemon keeps it all light. Because it’s made in one skillet, cleanup is easy. It works for weeknights, but also feels fancy enough for guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon

• 4 skinless salmon fillets – fresh or frozen (thawed) work
• 1 tsp sweet paprika – adds color and warmth
• 1 tsp garlic powder – savory depth
• 1 tsp salt, divided – seasons in layers
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper, divided – balances richness
• 1 tbsp olive oil – for searing
• 1 tsp unsalted butter – flavor and browning

For the Lemon Orzo

• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped – base flavor
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – aromatic kick
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta – small rice-shaped pasta that cooks fast
• 1 tsp dried thyme – earthy note
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth – cooks the orzo and adds flavor
• 5 oz baby spinach – fresh and green
• Juice from ½ lemon – brightens everything
• ½ cup grated Parmesan – creamy finish
• Freshly ground black pepper – for serving
• Chili flakes – optional, for heat

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Prep ingredients
   Grate Parmesan. Chop onion and mince garlic. Pat salmon dry. Season salmon with garlic powder, paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp pepper.
2. Sear salmon
   Heat olive oil and butter in an 11″ nonstick skillet over medium-high. Place salmon in and sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove to a plate.
3. Cook aromatics
   Lower heat to medium. Add onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in thyme, remaining salt, and pepper.
4. Toast orzo
   Add orzo to skillet. Stir for 1 minute to coat and lightly toast.
5. Simmer orzo
   Pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add greens
   Mix in spinach. Simmer another 2 minutes until wilted.
7. Finish orzo
   Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
8. Return salmon
   Place salmon back in skillet. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to warm through.
9. Serve
   Top with black pepper and chili flakes. Serve right from the skillet.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Swap salmon with shrimp or chicken for a change.
• Use broccoli, kale, or peas instead of spinach.
• Deglaze the skillet with a splash of dry white wine before adding broth for extra flavor.
• Serve with a leafy salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Cool completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge up to 1 day or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth to keep salmon from drying out.

Suggested Tools for Best Results

An 11″ nonstick frying pan gives space for both salmon and orzo. A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping quick. A bamboo cutting board is gentle on knife edges.

One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe Card

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More Such Recipes

Try my Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Parmesan and Herbs for another rich, comforting dinner.
Or make One-Pot Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Lemon for a poultry twist.
For a veggie-packed option, see Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

This one skillet salmon with lemon orzo is bright, creamy, and filling without feeling heavy. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights easier while still tasting special. If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Share your photos with me on Pinterest or Facebook.