Description
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is a rich, one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, a velvety Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo. This comforting dish is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 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)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Orzo:
- In the same pan, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 3-4 more minutes until the sauce thickens and the orzo is tender.
- 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.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Cheese Options: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Gruyère.
- Vegetable Additions: Try mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: italian inspired
Keywords: creamy parmesan chicken, one-pan chicken recipe, orzo pasta dish, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food recipe