Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Orzo Skillet
Looking for a quick, delicious meal that will have your family asking for seconds? This Chicken and Orzo dish is a one-pan wonder that's easy to make and bursting with flavor. Combining tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and the creamy texture of orzo pasta, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
What Makes This Chicken and Orzo Special?
- One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup is always a win, and this recipe keeps everything in one skillet.
- Creamy and Comforting: The mix of tomato sauce, heavy cream, and smoked paprika gives the dish a rich, slightly smoky flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying.
- Versatile Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, so it’s easy to whip up anytime. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite veggies like spinach or bell peppers for an extra boost of nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breasts (product #: 115510), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Method:
- Prep the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This simple combination of spices brings out a bold, smoky flavor in the chicken that pairs perfectly with the creamy orzo.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step builds the base of flavor for the sauce, and trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Simmer the Orzo: Now it’s time to add the orzo, chicken broth, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the orzo doesn’t stick and that the sauce thickens beautifully.
- Finish the Dish: Once the orzo is tender and the sauce has reached a luscious consistency, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine everything and let the flavors meld for another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley, and you’re ready to serve! The combination of smoky chicken, creamy orzo, and tangy tomato sauce is sure to impress.
Tips for Success:
- Keep Stirring: Orzo has a tendency to stick to the pan, so be sure to stir it occasionally while it cooks.
- Adjust to Your Taste: If you like a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or more smoked paprika. For a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply store it in an airtight container and enjoy within 2-3 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Chicken and Orzo skillet brings together the best of both worlds: the comfort of pasta with the heartiness of a chicken dish, all in a creamy, smoky sauce that will leave you feeling satisfied. It’s quick, flavorful, and easy enough for even the busiest of weeknights. So grab a skillet and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
