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Creamy Orzo Chicken

A comforting dish of creamy orzo pasta with tender pieces of chicken, brightened by herbs and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Carefully add them to the skillet, searing for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  2. Sauté the garlic: Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring gently into the garlic and oil. Toast for about a minute.
  4. Pour in the broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously while bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes until the orzo is al dente.
  5. Make it creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the orzo is coated in the creamy goodness. Add broth to loosen if necessary.
  6. Return the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts and nestle them back into the skillet with the orzo. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  7. Add the Italian seasoning and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Serve in shallow bowls with freshly cracked black pepper and extra Parmesan on top. You can also add fresh herbs for garnish.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy orzo chicken, weeknight dinner, comfort food, Italian cuisine, easy recipes