Print

Creamy Chicken and Orzo Skillet Recipe – Easy One-Pan Comfort Food

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A comforting one-pan chicken and orzo skillet with tender chicken, creamy pasta, savory seasonings, and Parmesan cheese. This easy weeknight dinner is rich, satisfying, and perfect for the whole family.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach, optional
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet and stir for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to release any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  9. Return the cooked chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Add the baby spinach, if using, and stir until wilted and the chicken is heated through.
  10. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving warm.

Notes

  • This is an adapted version inspired by Budget Bytes’ Creamy Chicken and Orzo Skillet, not a verified transcription of the original recipe.
  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
  • Stir the orzo occasionally during cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth until the desired consistency is reached.
  • Fresh spinach is optional and adds color and extra vegetables.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, although the sauce will be less rich.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy texture.
  • Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Nutrition values are approximate estimates per serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/creamy-chicken-and-orzo-skillet-recipe-easy-one-pan-comfort-food/