This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a perfect weeknight meal, bringing comfort and flavor to your table in under 30 minutes. Combining juicy, seasoned chicken, tender orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, this dish is easy to make and packed with vibrant colors and flavors. Each bite is a harmonious blend of tender pasta, garlic-infused cream, and savory chicken, making it a delightful one-pan meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning, tossing to coat evenly.
2. Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Orzo

1. Add garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn.
2. Add the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat with the garlic and any remaining oil. Toast the orzo for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer

1. Pour in the chicken broth: Gradually add the chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to deglaze any bits from the bottom. This adds extra flavor to the dish.
2. Add heavy cream: Pour in the heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook the orzo for about 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches a creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add chicken and veggies: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the halved cherry tomatoes and spinach. Stir to combine, allowing the spinach to wilt and the tomatoes to soften slightly.
2. Season and add Parmesan: Sprinkle in the remaining Italian seasoning and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate and garnish: Serve warm, garnishing with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh herbs, if desired. Pair with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 510
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sodium: 370mg
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 30g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I substitute orzo with another pasta?
Yes, while orzo has a unique texture, small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous can be used. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Q2: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half can replace heavy cream for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less thick. For a thicker sauce with half-and-half, add a teaspoon of flour while sautéing the garlic.

Q3: Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would pair well in this dish. Just sauté them along with the chicken for additional flavor.

Q4: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Orzo is made from wheat, so this recipe is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute with gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free version.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken and Orzo Skillet

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese add the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: To keep the chicken tender, cook only until just done, as it will continue to cook slightly when added back to the skillet.
• Stir the orzo frequently: To prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, stir the orzo occasionally as it simmers. Add a splash of extra broth or cream if the sauce gets too thick.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Parmesan is naturally salty, so taste as you go, especially when adding additional salt.

Storage Tips

Refrigerating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to restore creaminess.

Freezing
This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in individual portions. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding extra cream if needed.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal that will surely become a staple in your recipe collection. With its creamy texture, savory chicken, and fresh spinach and tomatoes, it’s a dish that delivers both taste and nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this one-pan meal is sure to impress your family or guests with its simplicity and rich, satisfying flavor. Enjoy this comfort food favorite and make it your go-to choice when you’re craving something both delicious and easy to prepare.