Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken with Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8 for 2X, 12 for 3X); 2 tablespoons olive oil (4 tbsp for 2X, 6 tbsp for 3X); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (2 tsp for 2X, 3 tsp for 3X); 1 teaspoon paprika (2 tsp for 2X, 3 tsp for 3X); Salt and pepper to taste (increase as needed for scaling); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (2 tbsp for 2X, 3 tbsp for 3X); 1 small onion, finely chopped (2 small onions for 2X, 3 onions for 3X); 3 garlic cloves, minced (6 for 2X, 9 for 3X); 1 cup orzo pasta (2 cups for 2X, 3 cups for 3X); 2 cups chicken broth (4 cups for 2X, 6 cups for 3X); 1 cup heavy cream (2 cups for 2X, 3 cups for 3X); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup for 2X, 1 ½ cups for 3X); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (2 tsp for 2X, 3 tsp for 3X); Salt and pepper to taste (adjust as needed for scaling); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (4 tbsp for 2X, 6 tbsp for 3X)

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This creamy garlic chicken with orzo is a perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken breasts paired with a creamy and flavorful orzo pasta. The dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning infuses the chicken with a rich, savory flavor that complements the creamy, cheesy orzo. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The orzo absorbs the flavors of the chicken broth and heavy cream, creating a luscious, creamy texture. With a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley to finish, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Deliciously Creamy

The orzo pasta, cooked in chicken broth and heavy cream, creates a rich and smooth sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender, flavorful chicken breasts. The result is a comforting, creamy dish that everyone will love.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe comes together quickly. You can have a hearty, restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

3. One-Pot Meal

The orzo and chicken are cooked in the same skillet, making for easy cleanup. All the ingredients meld together beautifully, saving you time in the kitchen.

4. Family-Friendly

The mild flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and chicken are sure to be a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. It’s a perfect dish for picky eaters or those who appreciate comforting meals.

5. Versatile

This recipe is easy to customize. You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers to the orzo for added flavor and nutrition. It’s also great with a sprinkle of extra cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for finishing.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper

For the Orzo:

Unsalted butter
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic cloves, minced
Orzo pasta
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Grated Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped

Variations

Add Veggies: Stir in some spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
Lemon Zest: For a bright twist, add lemon zest to the chicken or orzo for a refreshing flavor boost.
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper while cooking the orzo.
Chicken Thighs: If you prefer darker meat, you can easily substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts.
Herb Substitutes: Use fresh thyme or rosemary in place of Italian seasoning for a different herbal flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Orzo

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and softened. Add the orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to toast the pasta.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cover, cooking for 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Orzo

Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips and add them back to the skillet with the orzo. Stir everything together to combine and heat through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired, and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to keep them juicy and tender.
Toast the Orzo: To enhance the flavor of the orzo, take a minute to toast it before adding the broth. This step adds a nutty flavor to the pasta.
Adjust the Consistency: If the orzo mixture becomes too thick, you can add more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Use Fresh Parmesan: Grated fresh Parmesan cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce compared to pre-grated cheese.

How to Serve

Serve the creamy garlic chicken and orzo in individual bowls or on a large platter. Pair with a side salad, some roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to complete the meal. The dish also pairs wonderfully with a light white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover creamy garlic chicken and orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to help loosen the sauce.

Freezing

You can freeze the creamy garlic chicken and orzo for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight, freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little extra chicken broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like rice-shaped couscous or ditalini.

2. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and provide a richer flavor.

3. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less thick and rich.

4. How can I make the recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chicken and orzo ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

6. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them before cooking for even results.

7. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a finely chopped chili pepper to the orzo or chicken for some heat.

8. What vegetables can I add to the orzo?

Spinach, mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes would all make great additions to the orzo for added flavor and nutrition.

9. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan will yield the best texture and flavor, but pre-grated cheese can be used if needed.

10. What’s the best way to reheat the dish?

Reheat the dish gently over low heat with a bit of added broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic chicken with orzo is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender chicken, combined with the creamy, cheesy orzo, creates a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special weeknight treat, this recipe delivers on both taste and ease. Try it today and enjoy the perfect combination of savory flavors and creamy textures!