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Creamy Orzo With Chicken: A Wonderful Ultimate Recipe You’ll Love

Creamy Orzo With Chicken: A Wonderful Ultimate Recipe You’ll Love
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★★★★★

5.1 from 13 reviews

Creamy Orzo With Chicken is a comforting and delicious one-pot meal combining tender diced chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. This easy-to-make recipe features simple ingredients and comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. The optional peas add a pop of color and sweetness, while fresh parsley provides a bright, herbaceous finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo and Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup frozen peas (optional)

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken and orzo.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the hot skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta, mixing it thoroughly with the garlic and remaining olive oil. Let it toast gently for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to evenly brown the orzo.
  5. Incorporate the Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. Cook the Orzo: Allow the orzo to cook in the simmering broth for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is tender.
  7. Create the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts, and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
  8. Combine Chicken and Peas: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. If using, add the frozen peas as well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the peas to soften slightly.
  9. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and add more salt or black pepper if needed to suit your preference.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a burst of fresh flavor and color.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
  • You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a different flavor or a vegetarian adaptation.
  • Frozen peas are optional but add a nice pop of color and sweetness; fresh peas can be used if in season.
  • Try adding other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Orzo, Chicken Orzo, One-Pot Dinner, Easy Chicken Recipes, Comfort Food, Parmesan Orzo

Find it online: https://recipeswithmia.com/creamy-orzo-with-chicken-a-wonderful-ultimate-recipe-youll-love/