Creamy Chicken Orzo

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Creamy Chicken Orzo. It takes me back to rainy afternoons spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who had a knack for turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. She’d pull out her trusty skillet, and I would watch in awe as she crafted one of our family favorites. The aroma of chicken sizzling in garlic and spices would fill the air, instantly making the house feel warm and inviting. Today, I want to share that experience with you, so you can create your own memories around the dinner table.

Shopping List for Creamy Chicken Orzo

This dish is all about harmony in flavors and textures. The combination of chicken, orzo, and a creamy sauce creates a delightful balance that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The key players in this recipe are the chicken, which provides protein; the orzo, which is a delightful pasta that absorbs all the flavors; and the heavy cream, which gives the dish its luxurious texture.

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cubed) – Tender and juicy, this is the star of the dish.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a robust flavor without the hassle of fresh garlic.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory notes of the dish.
• ½ teaspoon ground paprika – Brings warmth and a subtle smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for drawing out flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a touch of heat.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided) – For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
• ½ onion (chopped) – Provides depth and sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Fresh and aromatic, this brings the dish to life.
• 1½ cups dry orzo pasta – This small pasta is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth – A flavorful base that keeps the dish moist.
• ½ cup heavy cream (room temperature) – Key to achieving that creamy texture.
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping) – Adds richness and a cheesy finish.
• Chopped fresh parsley – A bright garnish that adds freshness.
• Chopped fresh thyme – An aromatic herb that elevates the dish.
• Lemon juice – A splash of acidity that brightens the flavors.

How to Assemble Creamy Chicken Orzo

Making Creamy Chicken Orzo is a straightforward process that rewards you with a delicious meal. Start by preparing all your ingredients, so you can easily add them as needed. The dish comes together quickly, and with a little attention, you’ll create a comforting dinner that feels special.

1. In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure the pieces are well-coated for maximum flavor.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through. You want that golden crust to develop, which adds delicious flavor.
3. After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the chopped onion. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and sauté for a few minutes until softened and translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the onion. Cook for another minute until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn. The aroma should be delightful!
5. Now, stir in the dry orzo and mix well with the onion and garlic. Then pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. It should bubble energetically.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Remove the lid and stir in the room temperature heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The sauce should become creamy and luscious. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to your liking.
8. Finally, sprinkle over chopped parsley and thyme for that fresh finish. Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors even more!
9. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness of your Creamy Chicken Orzo. It’s sure to become a family favorite!

Expert Tips about Creamy Chicken Orzo

This Creamy Chicken Orzo recipe is straightforward and can be made even better with a few tips. Here’s how to elevate your dish:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: While this dish can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it before adding the heavy cream. Once thawed, add cream during reheating for the best texture.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. The freshness complements the creamy dish beautifully.
• Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach or peas to the mix for added color and nutrition.
• Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the seasonings based on your preferences; some might prefer a little more paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Serving: Top your serving with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of lemon zest to enhance the dish’s flavor.

Great Combinations for Creamy Chicken Orzo

Serving Creamy Chicken Orzo is a delightful experience, as it pairs beautifully with various sides and occasions. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more special:

• Fresh Salad: Pair with a simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for a colorful plate.
• Lunch or Dinner: This dish is great for lunch or dinner and can be easily reheated for leftovers.
• Comfort Food: Ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, consider making a creamy chicken soup by adding more broth and some greens.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Creamy Chicken Orzo lies in its simplicity and comforting flavors. It’s a dish that wraps you in warmth, perfect for cozy dinners with loved ones. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you might just find it becoming a staple in your household, bringing joy and satisfaction to your dinner table.

Creamy Chicken Orzo

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Chicken Orzo is a cozy, creamy dish that combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked orzo in a rich sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it’s deliciously satisfying and ready in no time!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 580

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds Chicken breast Cubed, boneless and skinless.
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil Divided into portions.
• 0.5 onion Onion Chopped.
• 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
• 1.5 cups Dry orzo pasta Acts as a great base for this dish.
• 3 cups Low-sodium chicken broth
• 0.5 cups Heavy cream Should be at room temperature.
• 0.25 cups Parmesan cheese Freshly grated, plus more for topping.
• 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley Chopped, for garnish.
• 1 tablespoon Fresh thyme Chopped, for garnish.
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice For flavor brightness.

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Large Pot
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once heated, add in the chicken, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until browned.
3. Add in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then add in the onion. Sprinkle with salt, and cook for a couple minutes until softened. Add in the garlic, and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in the orzo, then add in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Cover the pan and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the orzo is cooked.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
7. Finish with a sprinkle of parsley, thyme, more Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

• Tip 1: Make sure to bring the heavy cream to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This will ensure that it doesn’t seize and turn clumpy when added to the dish.
• Tip 2: Check on the pasta frequently as it cooks and lower the heat as needed. The liquid will boil out and the orzo will burn if the heat is too high.

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.