If you’re looking for a dish that combines tender chicken, nutty Parmesan, and creamy orzo in one cozy skillet, this Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is here to satisfy your cravings. Featuring juicy chicken breasts simmered in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce with perfectly cooked orzo pasta, this recipe is a quick, easy, and indulgent meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious, comforting dish at home!
Why You’ll Love Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo
- Creamy & Cheesy: The Parmesan cream sauce adds a rich, velvety finish to every bite.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes this dish as practical as it is delicious.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep work—perfect for busy days.
- Customizable: Add veggies, spices, or proteins to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4–6)
For the Dish:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- Optional: 1 cup chopped spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
