Description
Tender Chicken Orzo with a Parmesan Finish is a creamy and flavorful weeknight dinner combining juicy chicken and tender orzo pasta in a luscious Parmesan sauce. This comforting dish balances savory herbs and rich textures for an elegant yet effortless meal that delights family and guests.
Ingredients
Protein
- Chicken breast or thighs (tender cuts, quantity as desired, e.g., 1 lb)
Pasta
- Orzo pasta (1 cup)
Dairy
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (1/2 cup)
- Cream or milk (1/2 cup)
Aromatics
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
- Onion, diced (1 small)
Liquids
- Chicken broth (2 cups)
Herbs and Seasonings
- Fresh herbs: parsley, thyme, or basil (2 tbsp chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Fat for cooking
- Olive oil or butter (2 tbsp)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from the pan and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add more oil or butter if needed. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. This builds the flavorful base for the sauce.
- Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet and toast lightly by stirring for 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in cream or milk. Allow the sauce to thicken gently. Add freshly grated Parmesan, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste.
- Combine and Finish: Slice the cooked chicken and fold it into the creamy orzo mixture. Heat through for a minute or two to meld the flavors. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for better flavor and creamier melting.
- Do not overcook the orzo; it should remain slightly firm to avoid mushiness.
- Allow chicken to rest a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy when sliced.
- Stir frequently while cooking the orzo to prevent sticking.
- Adjust sauce creaminess by adding more broth or cream as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg