One Skillet Creamy Orzo Chicken

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One skillet creamy orzo chicken dish garnished with herbs
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One Skillet Creamy Orzo Chicken is the perfect weeknight dinner option, combining succulent chicken breast with comforting orzo pasta in a rich and creamy sauce. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, as everything cooks in one pan, allowing you to savor both time and flavor. The delightful blend of onion, garlic, spinach, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience that your family will crave again and again.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 570
  • Protein: 34 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 55 grams
  • Fat: 24 grams
  • Fiber: 2 grams
  • Sugar: 2 grams
  • Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This One Skillet Creamy Orzo Chicken

This One Skillet Creamy Orzo Chicken is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its creamy texture and savory flavor profile will please both kids and adults alike. Plus, the use of just one skillet means minimal cleanup, allowing you more time to relax after dinner. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, this dish is friendly to all skill levels, ensuring delicious results every time.

How to Make One Skillet Creamy Orzo Chicken

Creating this wholesome meal is straightforward and enjoyable. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can have a comforting dinner ready in no time.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  • Step 1: Heating the Oil

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  • Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

    Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

  • Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables

    In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant.

  • Step 4: Mixing the Orzo

    Stir in the orzo and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.

  • Step 5: Simmering the Broth

    Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.

  • Step 6: Adding Cream and Cheese

    Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.

  • Step 7: Combining Ingredients

    Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix well to combine all the flavors.

  • Step 8: Seasoning

    Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  • Step 9: Serving Warm

    Serve the dish warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

How to Serve One Skillet Creamy Orzo Chicken

Serve this delightful dish directly from the skillet for a casual and inviting presentation. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a burst of freshness, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

How to Store One Skillet Creamy Orzo Chicken

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. While this dish is delicious fresh, it can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Expert Tips for Perfect One Skillet Creamy Orzo Chicken

  1. Use High-Quality Chicken: Fresh or organic chicken breast will enhance the flavor.
  2. Do Not Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo during the simmering process to prevent mushiness.
  3. Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
  4. Make it Lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce the fat content without compromising too much on creaminess.
  5. Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can elevate the dish’s aroma and flavor.

Delicious Variations

  • One Skillet Creamy Mushroom Orzo Chicken: Replace half the chicken with sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
  • Pesto Orzo Chicken: Stir in a generous scoop of pesto at the end for a burst of Italian flavor.
  • One-Pan Spinach and Artichoke Chicken: Incorporate artichoke hearts along with the spinach for extra depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I substitute orzo with another pasta?
    Yes, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

  • Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
    Yes! Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

  • How do I know if the chicken is cooked?
    The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Cut into a piece to check that it is no longer pink inside.

  • What should I do with leftovers?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for later use.

  • Can I make this recipe in advance?
    While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and combine them when ready to cook.

Conclusion

One Skillet Creamy Orzo Chicken is a delightful and satisfying meal that will become a staple in your recipe rotation. Thanks to its creamy texture and comforting flavors, this dish is sure to put smiles on faces around the dinner table. So, gather your ingredients and take a step into culinary bliss with this easy-to-make recipe! Enjoy the process and the rewards of creating a delicious meal for yourself and your loved ones.

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One Skillet Creamy Orzo Chicken

  • Author: mia-harper
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: None
Print Recipe

Description

A comforting one-pan dinner with succulent chicken and creamy orzo, flavored with onion, garlic, spinach, and Parmesan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
  4. Stir in the orzo and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix well to combine all the flavors.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve the dish warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Customize by adding different vegetables or herbs.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 570
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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