Creamy Chicken Orzo with Boursin

Name: Creamy Chicken Orzo with Boursin
Ingredients: 4 (8-ounce) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, patted dry; 3/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided; 1 (10-ounce) bunch fresh broccolini, trimmed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 shallots, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup); 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped (about 1 tablespoon); 1 cup uncooked orzo; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 (5.3-ounce) package garlic-and-herb spreadable cheese (such as Boursin); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish; 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest