If you’re searching for the best creamy chicken and orzo recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This one-pan Parmesan chicken and orzo is a quick and easy comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Imagine golden, seared chicken breasts nestled in a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce, with tender orzo pasta soaking up all the rich flavors. This skillet chicken recipe is like risotto but with half the effort and double the flavor!
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
One-Pan Wonder – Easy cleanup and full of flavor.
Rich & Creamy – A cheesy Parmesan sauce that’s irresistible.
30-Minute Meal – A quick weeknight dinner for busy schedules.
Versatile & Customizable – Add veggies, swap proteins, or make it gluten-free.
Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved – Even picky eaters will love it!
Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Orzo & Sauce:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Dietary Swaps for Healthier Options
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or swap with arborio rice.
Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk for cream and use dairy-free Parmesan.
Lower-Calorie: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo – fenrecipes.com
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo – Step-by-Step
Step1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt butter and add the chopped onion.
Cook for 3 minutes until translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step3: Toast the Orzo
Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Step4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Step5: Combine & Serve
Return the seared chicken to the skillet and coat it with the creamy sauce.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve hot and enjoy this easy one-pan chicken recipe!
Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo
Check Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Don’t Overcook the Orzo: It should be al dente for the best texture.
Deglaze for More Flavor: After searing the chicken, scrape the pan with broth.
Make It Healthier: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or use whole-grain orzo.
Add Extra Flavor: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo
This creamy chicken skillet recipe pairs perfectly with:
Garlic Bread: To scoop up the rich Parmesan sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
Side Salad: A fresh Caesar salad or arugula salad.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Looking for a low-carb version? Swap orzo for cauliflower rice and use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Storage & Leftovers – How to Keep It Fresh
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.
Freezing: Not recommended (cream sauce may separate).
FAQs – Answering Your Cooking Questions
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Reheat gently on the stovetop with extra broth or cream.
What’s the Best Substitute for Orzo?
Try arborio rice, ditalini pasta, or pearl couscous.
Can I Use Milk Instead of Heavy Cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less rich—add extra Parmesan for thickness.
How Do I Prevent Orzo from Sticking?
Stir frequently while cooking to keep it from clumping.
Related Recipes – Try These Next!
-
Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy Garlic Parmesan Recipe
-
Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta – Best Dinner Recipe
Conclusion
Now you know how to make the best Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo with simple, delicious ingredients!
Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your experience!
Love this dish? Share it on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram!
Bookmark this recipe and make it part of your weekly meal plan!
Happy cooking!
Print
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo – Easy Family Dinner
Description
If you’re searching for the best creamy chicken and orzo recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This one-pan Parmesan chicken and orzo is a quick and easy comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Imagine golden, seared chicken breasts nestled in a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce, with tender orzo pasta soaking up all the rich flavors. This skillet chicken recipe is like risotto but with half the effort and double the flavor!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Orzo & Sauce:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Dietary Swaps for Healthier OptionsGluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or swap with arborio rice.Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk for cream and use dairy-free Parmesan.Lower-Calorie: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Instructions
Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and add the chopped onion. Cook for 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Return the seared chicken to the skillet and coat it with the creamy sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy this easy one-pan chicken recipe!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
Check Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165degF (74degC).Don’t Overcook the Orzo: It should be al dente for the best texture.Deglaze for More Flavor: After searing the chicken, scrape the pan broth.Make It Healthier: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or use whole-grain orzo.Add Extra Flavor: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms.