Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet

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Creamy chicken orzo skillet with fresh vegetables and herbs
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Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet

Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet is a delightful dish that combines tender grilled chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It’s a one-pan meal that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with delicious flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it’s quick to make, allowing you to have a tasty meal ready in about 30 minutes. Second, it uses simple ingredients that you likely have on hand, making it budget-friendly. Finally, the creamy texture and savory taste make it a comforting and satisfying dish for everyone at the table.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Grill until charred and cooked through. Slice and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, add olive oil and garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add orzo, chicken broth, and cream. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is tender.
  4. Stir in broccoli in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  5. Stir in parmesan cheese and season to taste. Top with the grilled chicken and garnish with parsley.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet

Serve the Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet warm. You can plate it individually or serve it right from the skillet for a family-style meal. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying dinner.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for 3–4 days in the fridge. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little chicken broth if it seems dry.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet

  • Ensure the chicken is cooked to the right temperature (165°F) for safety.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
  • Adjust the amount of cream and cheese based on your preference for creaminess.

Variation

If you want to make this dish lighter, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Additionally, you can swap the grilled chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
    Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even use rice, but cooking times may vary.

  2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
    Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. Just store it in individual portions to enjoy throughout the week.

  3. Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet?
    While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly once thawed. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

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Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet

  • Author: olivia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Nut-free
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Description

A delightful one-pan meal that combines tender grilled chicken, creamy sauce, and orzo pasta, perfect for a weeknight dinner or gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Grill until charred and cooked through. Slice and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, add olive oil and garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add orzo, chicken broth, and cream. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is tender.
  4. Stir in broccoli in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  5. Stir in parmesan cheese and season to taste. Top with the grilled chicken and garnish with parsley.

Notes

Feel free to add other vegetables for extra nutrition. Can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: chicken, orzo, creamy, skillet, one-pan meal

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