Garlic Parm Chicken Orzo

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo Recipe Easy and Quick

katya bou

Garlic Parm Chicken Orzo

A flavorful and creamy dish featuring tender chicken pieces infused with garlic and Parmesan, nestled among al dente orzo pasta in a velvety sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: dinner, Main Dish

Cuisine: American, Italian

Calories: 540

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon salt divided, plus more to taste
0.5 teaspoon black pepper divided, plus more to taste
4 cloves garlic minced (about 1.5 tablespoons)
4 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
1.5 cups orzo pasta
0.5 cup heavy cream
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon

Method

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper evenly.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in a single layer without overcrowding, cooking 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same pan and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, adding a splash of oil if needed.
Pour in chicken broth and deglaze by scraping browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in orzo, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Cover and cook on medium-low for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
Remove pan from heat. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
Return chicken to skillet and toss gently to coat with sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 45gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Freshly grated Parmesan and properly searing the chicken are key steps for optimal flavor. Adjust liquid as necessary to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Variations include adding vegetables, swapping proteins, or adding spice.

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