Description
This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken with a rich, creamy orzo pasta. The orzo is cooked in a flavorful chicken broth and cream, then finished with Parmesan and Italian seasoning. The result is a comforting, cheesy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
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For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Orzo:
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup orzo pasta
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Instructions
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Cook the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken in the skillet for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. -
Prepare the Orzo:
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. -
Cook the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. -
Make the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and the orzo is fully cooked. -
Finish the Dish:
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and add them on top of the creamy orzo mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. -
Serve:
Serve the creamy Parmesan chicken with orzo immediately for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
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You can substitute the orzo with another small pasta like farfalle or penne if you prefer.
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If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though it will be less creamy.
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Adding some sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables can make the dish even more flavorful and nutritious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired