When it comes to weeknight dinners, Creamy Chicken Orzo is my ultimate go-to dish. It’s a one-pot wonder that marries tender chicken with perfectly cooked orzo in a rich, creamy sauce. With just a handful of ingredients, this meal comes together in a snap, making it ideal for busy evenings or when you simply crave something comforting and delicious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to what you have on hand. Let’s dive into why this dish has earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation.
Why It’s My Go-To
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a creamy pasta dish that hits all the right notes—rich, savory, and fulfilling. What makes Creamy Chicken Orzo stand out is its simplicity and the depth of flavor it offers. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. The combination of garlic, onion, and fresh herbs elevates the dish, while the orzo pasta soaks up the creamy broth beautifully. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner or at a gathering, this dish will impress everyone at the table.
Gather These Ingredients
Before we get started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cubed)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Chopped fresh thyme for garnish
- Lemon juice for brightness
Prep & Cook Tools
Having the right tools can make cooking a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and making the creamy sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and preventing the pasta from sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping the onion and garlic.
Creamy Chicken Orzo Made Stepwise
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Chicken Orzo:
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken breast with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Stir in the dry orzo pasta, allowing it to toast slightly for about 1-2 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.
Step 5: Add the Chicken Back In
Once the orzo is cooked, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in chopped parsley, thyme, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re looking to reduce carbs, consider these alternatives:
- Substitute the orzo with cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
- Use grilled chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor.
- Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Troubleshooting Tips
Cooking can sometimes be unpredictable. Here are some tips to ensure your Creamy Chicken Orzo turns out perfectly:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
- For extra creaminess, increase the amount of heavy cream or Parmesan cheese.
- Make sure to cook the orzo just until al dente as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
This Creamy Chicken Orzo dish is great for meal prep!
- Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Your Top Questions
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo gives this dish its unique charm, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe if desired.
How can I spice it up?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the onions and garlic.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them when ready to serve. Just be sure to reheat gently to keep everything creamy.
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Next Steps
Now that you’re equipped with this easy and delicious Creamy Chicken Orzo recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family. Enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors that will make this dish a staple in your kitchen!
Creamy Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken breast with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the dry orzo pasta, allowing it to toast slightly for about 1-2 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.
- Once the orzo is cooked, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in chopped parsley, thyme, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- For a low-carb twist, substitute the orzo with cauliflower rice.
- Consider using grilled chicken thighs for more flavor.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
