Description
A rich and comforting one-pan creamy garlic parmesan chicken orzo made with tender chicken, toasted orzo, and a luscious parmesan cream sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add butter to the skillet, then sauté the onion until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the orzo is tender, reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix well until creamy.
- Add spinach if using and cook until wilted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American