Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, look no further than this Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo Recipe. This one-pan meal brings together tender chicken, velvety orzo, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce for a dinner that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a romantic dinner for two, this recipe is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Rich and Creamy: The Parmesan sauce adds luxurious flavor to every bite.
3. Customizable: Add vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the hot pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. (The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage; it will finish cooking later.) Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

1. Melt the Butter: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add butter.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toast the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
4. Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer the Orzo: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the orzo cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken and Parmesan

1. Return the Chicken: Once the orzo is nearly tender, nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
2. Add Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts evenly into the sauce.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

1. Optional Spinach: If using spinach, fold it into the skillet until it wilts.
2. Brighten with Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of acidity that balances the creamy sauce.
3. Season to Taste: Adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the creamy Parmesan chicken and orzo directly from the skillet or transfer to a serving dish.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.
3. Enjoy Warm: Pair with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so grating your own is key to a creamy sauce.
2. Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it stays al dente.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Scrape up any browned bits from the chicken when you add the liquid for extra flavor.
4. Thin the Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or plant-based protein.
2. Add Vegetables: Stir in cooked peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed asparagus for added nutrition.
3. Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne for a bolder flavor.
4. Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, turkey cutlets, or even salmon in place of chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo with:

• Garlic Knots: A buttery, garlicky side that complements the creamy dish.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp and refreshing, a classic salad is the perfect pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini.
• White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio enhances the meal’s creamy richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Other Pasta Instead of Orzo?

Yes! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe can work as substitutes, though cooking times may vary.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, but the sauce may be less rich.

Is This Dish Gluten-Free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice.

Conclusion

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo recipe is a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and satisfying flavors. It’s versatile enough for a quick weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve guests. The one-pan preparation makes cleanup a breeze, and the result is a comforting, restaurant-quality dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Yield: 4

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo Recipe

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If you're searching for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, look no further than this Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo Recipe. This one-pan meal brings together tender chicken, velvety orzo, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce for a dinner that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you're cooking for a family meal or a romantic dinner for two, this recipe is sure to please.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Orzo and Sauce
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Orzo

1. In the same skillet, add butter and melt over medium heat.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the orzo and stir to coat in the butter. Let it toast lightly for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Cook the orzo, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until the broth is mostly absorbed and the orzo is tender.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
2. Add red pepper flakes (if using) for a hint of heat.
3. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.

4. Add Spinach (Optional)

1. If using spinach, stir it into the skillet and let it wilt for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add the lemon zest for a bright flavor boost.

5. Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy orzo.
2. Spoon sauce over the chicken and let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Swap the Protein: Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for variation.

Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or peas to the dish.

Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream.