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–+ servings
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo: Your New Comfort Classic

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo delivers comfort and flavor in a single pot for an easy weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs Choose thighs for juiciness or breasts for a leaner option; cut into bite-sized chunks.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Enhances flavor with a blend of herbs; replace with a mix of dried oregano and basil if unavailable.
  • 1 tsp Salt Basic seasoning to enhance taste; adjust to individual preference.
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper Basic seasoning to enhance taste; adjust to individual preference.
For the Sauce and Pasta
  • Olive Oil Adds richness and is used for cooking; substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
  • 1 tbsp Butter Contributes to the creamy texture of the dish; use unsalted butter.
  • 0.5 Yellow Onion Chopped; adds sweetness and depth to the base flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; use garlic powder in a pinch (1 teaspoon).
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well; substitute with couscous or small pasta shapes if desired.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Provides a savory base for the sauce; can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates a luscious, creamy sauce; substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
  • 0.75 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Delivers bold flavor and smooth texture; always use fresh for the best melting properties.
For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley Chopped; adds brightness and color to the dish.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat until shimmering and melted.
  2. Season 1 pound of bite-sized chicken chunks with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer, searing for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. In the same skillet, add ½ chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it.
  5. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
  6. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ¾ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to combine. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, letting everything simmer together for an additional 3-5 minutes.
  7. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt or pepper according to your preference. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, always toast the orzo and use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust salt and pepper mindfully for optimal flavor balance.

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