Description
This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is your new go-to for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. With tender chicken, velvety orzo, and a rich Parmesan-infused sauce, this dish feels fancy but comes together in a single pan.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Orzo:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
- Add the orzo to the skillet and stir to coat it in the butter and aromatics. Toast for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender, about 8–10 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reheat the chicken and meld the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550