Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo

A Comforting and Flavorful One-Pan Meal

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is a rich, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, velvety Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. This one-pan meal is ideal for busy weeknights, offering a balance of creamy texture and savory flavors with minimal cleanup.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a meal to impress guests, this dish delivers on taste and convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience – Everything cooks in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rich & Creamy Flavor – The Parmesan sauce coats the orzo and chicken beautifully, creating an indulgent texture.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
• Customizable – Add veggies, swap the protein, or use different cheeses for variation.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Orzo and Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Additional Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Cook the Orzo

• In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

• Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
• Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and the orzo is tender.

4. Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan, nestling it into the creamy orzo.
• If using spinach or cherry tomatoes, add them now and stir gently.
• Simmer for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

5. Serve and Garnish

• Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

• Protein Swap – Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different take.
• Cheese Options – Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a unique flavor.
• Vegetable Additions – Mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas can be added for extra nutrition.
• Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese.

Servings & Timing

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

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta or use rice instead. Ensure the broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be less creamy. Whole milk or a mix of milk and cornstarch can help thicken the sauce.

What can I serve with this dish?

A light side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pairs well with this creamy dish.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and orzo separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

Why is my sauce too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?

Reheat gently with added liquid (broth or cream) and cover the pan to retain moisture.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sear the chicken using the sauté function, then cook the orzo with broth on high pressure for 4 minutes. Stir in the cheese and cream after pressure release.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Reduce the red pepper flakes for a milder version that kids will enjoy.

How can I add more protein?

Top with extra grilled chicken or stir in cooked bacon for more protein content.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is a satisfying, easy-to-make meal that delivers bold flavors and a creamy texture in just one pan. Perfect for busy nights or cozy dinners, this dish is versatile, customizable, and sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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