If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’re going to love this Creamy Chicken Orzo: A Simple and Delicious Recipe. It combines tender chicken, luscious creamy sauce, and tender orzo pasta, all coming together in a harmony of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between effortless cooking and gourmet taste, making every bite a memorable experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward, using ingredients that you likely have on hand. Each item plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture — from the juicy chicken to the creamy Parmesan-laden sauce.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound): Cubed for quick, even cooking and tender bites throughout the dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to brown the chicken and sauté vegetables, adding a rich base flavor.
- Medium onion, chopped: Provides a mild sweetness and depth when softened.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2 cloves): Adds aromatic fragrance and a savory kick.
- Orzo pasta (1 cup): Small pasta that cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with creamy sauces.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): Offers rich, savory liquid to cook the orzo and infuse flavor.
- Diced tomatoes, undrained (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Brings brightness and subtle acidity to balance the creaminess.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luxurious, velvety texture essential to this hearty dish.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Adds savory umami and thickens the sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1/4 cup): Provides fresh green color and a hint of brightness.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): A classic Mediterranean herb that amplifies flavor complexity.
- Dried basil (1/2 teaspoon): Complements oregano with a sweet, herbaceous note.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Essential seasonings to balance and enhance flavors.
- Optional sun-dried tomatoes (1/4 cup, chopped): Gives an intense, tangy burst of flavor if you want a twist.
- Optional feta cheese (1/4 cup, crumbled): Adds creamy saltiness and a delightful contrast if included.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Orzo: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Step 1: Season and Brown the Chicken
Start by tossing the chicken cubes with a little salt and pepper to season them evenly. Heat your olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned all over and cooked through, around 6 to 8 minutes. This browning step locks in flavor and makes each bite wonderfully savory. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside—don’t drain the flavorful juices yet!
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook while stirring frequently until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for just one more minute until fragrant, making sure not to let it burn. This step builds the aromatic foundation that makes the Creamy Chicken Orzo: A Simple and Delicious Recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Toss the orzo into the skillet with the softened onion and garlic. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to toast the pasta slightly; this adds a subtle nuttiness and keeps the orzo from becoming mushy later on. Toasting is a simple trick that elevates the texture and flavor of the final dish.
Step 4: Simmer Orzo with Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. The orzo will absorb most of the liquid and become perfectly tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This stage infuses the pasta with rich, savory tomato and broth flavor, making it perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce later.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the orzo is cooked and the liquid mostly absorbed, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, oregano, basil, and the remaining salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes luxuriously creamy. The Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding that sharp, cheesy depth that makes this dish such a crowd-pleaser.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Optional Ingredients
Gently fold the browned chicken back into the skillet, warming it through without stirring too vigorously to preserve the creamy texture. Now’s the time to add those optional sun-dried tomatoes or crumbled feta cheese if you’re feeling adventurous—they each add a unique pop of flavor that complements the richness perfectly. Give everything a final taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Step 7: Serve It Up!
Your Creamy Chicken Orzo: A Simple and Delicious Recipe is now ready to bring some comfort and joy to your table. Serve while hot for the best experience.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Orzo: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese on top adds a touch of color and an inviting aroma. These simple garnishes instantly elevate the visual appeal and enhance the taste with fresh bursts.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light, crisp salads like arugula with lemon vinaigrette or roasted veggies such as asparagus or green beans. They add texture contrast and freshness, balancing out the creamy, hearty orzo dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve Creamy Chicken Orzo: A Simple and Delicious Recipe in individual ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers for a festive look. You can also drizzle a little flavored olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top to brighten each serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, Creamy Chicken Orzo: A Simple and Delicious Recipe will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but be aware that the texture of the cream sauce might change slightly. For best results, freeze in portioned freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce becomes too thick. This ensures the creaminess is revived without separating, making leftovers just as enjoyable as the first serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is ideal because of its small shape and quick cooking time, other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small elbow macaroni also work well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Definitely. Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly and adjust the cooking time if the pieces are larger.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I add heat?
This Creamy Chicken Orzo: A Simple and Delicious Recipe is mild and comforting by default. If you love heat, add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion or a dash of hot sauce when serving.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to the point before adding the cream and cheese. Refrigerate, then finish cooking with the cream and cheese just before serving to keep everything fresh and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Orzo: A Simple and Delicious Recipe truly feels like a gift to your taste buds. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy enough for weeknights yet special enough to impress anyone at your table. Give it a try soon—once you do, it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes for simple, satisfying cooking.
Print
Creamy Chicken Orzo: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Orzo recipe is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal combining tender chicken, toasted orzo pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce made with Parmesan and heavy cream. Enhanced with herbs, garlic, and optional sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese, it’s a simple yet elegant dinner that comes together in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken & Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (divided)
Cooking Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated for enhanced flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, releasing its flavor.
- Toast the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it with the oil and aromatics. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to lightly toast the orzo, which enhances its nutty flavor.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate Creamy Ingredients: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, and the remaining salt and black pepper. Continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Gently stir the cooked chicken back into the skillet, allowing it to heat through and soak up the creamy sauce.
- Season to Taste: Taste the dish and adjust seasonings if needed, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese for additional tang and depth of flavor.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken orzo immediately, garnished with extra fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for a fresh finish.
Notes
- To speed up prep, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken cubes.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though sauce may be less thick.
- To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when deglazing after cooking the chicken.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
