Print

Creamy Orzo with Chicken: A One-Pan Wonder for Busy Nights

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A flavorful one-pan dish with tender chicken, creamy orzo, and wilted spinach. Perfect for beginner cooks, this recipe is quick, easy, and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ lb thin chicken breasts
  • ½ tsp sea salt, cracked pepper, garlic powder, and paprika
  • 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ⅓ cup white wine
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
  • 1 ½ cups orzo, uncooked
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ⅔ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 handfuls baby spinach

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken: Pound or cut the chicken to thin pieces. Pat dry and season well. Thin chicken cooks evenly and quickly. Use a cutting board. Use a meat mallet or knife.
  • Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside. A hot skillet ensures a good sear. Use a large skillet. Use a stove top.
  • Sauté the Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add more olive oil if needed, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Don’t burn the garlic. Use a large skillet. Use a spoon.
  • Deglaze the Pan: Pour in white wine and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Deglazing adds depth of flavor. Use a large skillet. Use a spoon.
  • Add Broth, Seasoning, and Orzo: Add chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and orzo to the skillet. Stir to combine. Stir to prevent orzo from sticking. Use a large skillet. Use a spoon.
  • Cook the Orzo and Chicken: Bring to a light boil, then return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F and the orzo is al dente. Stir occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to check chicken temperature. Use a lid. Use a timer.
  • Add Cream, Tomato Paste, and Parmesan: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, tomato paste, and Parmesan cheese until creamy. Stir continuously to prevent sticking. Use a large skillet. Use a spoon.
  • Add Spinach: Add baby spinach and stir until wilted. Spinach wilts quickly. Use a large skillet. Use a spoon.
  • Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Serve hot for best flavor. Use a serving plate. Use a spoon.

Notes

  • Thin chicken cooks faster.
  • Deglaze pan for flavor.
  • Don’t overcook orzo.
  • Use room-temperature cream.

Find it online: https://marcelarecipes.com/creamy-orzo-with-chicken-a-one-pan-wonder-for-busy-nights/