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Creamy Garlic Chicken and Orzo Recipe

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4.3 from 6 reviews

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Orzo is a simple and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender pieces of chicken simmered with orzo pasta in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Ready in about 40 minutes, this dish combines the savory flavors of paprika-seasoned chicken, aromatic shallots and garlic, and a luxurious creamy broth, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 shallot, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta & Liquids

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Finishing Ingredients

  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and black pepper to coat evenly, ensuring the flavor penetrates the meat.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
  3. Sauté shallots and garlic: In the same pan, add the diced shallot and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant to build aromatic flavors.
  4. Toast the orzo: Add the dry orzo pasta to the pan and stir for about 1 minute, lightly toasting it to bring out a nutty flavor.
  5. Add liquids and seasoning: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then season with Italian seasoning and an extra pinch of salt. Stir everything together thoroughly.
  6. Simmer the pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  7. Finish with chicken and cheese: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
  8. Add lemon juice and adjust seasoning: Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice to brighten the sauce. Taste and season with additional salt and black pepper if needed before serving.

Notes

  • Prep the shallot and garlic ahead of time as they cook quickly after the chicken has been removed from the pan.
  • Taste the orzo before serving and add a pinch of salt if necessary, since the flavor can be mild after cooking.
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice at the end enhances the richness by adding a fresh, bright note.
  • If the orzo becomes too thick after sitting, stir in a splash of warm chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce before serving.
  • For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted broccoli or a simple green salad.
  • To include more vegetables, stir in spinach or frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking.

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/creamy-garlic-chicken-and-orzo-recipe/