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Creamy Chicken Orzo

Creamy Chicken Orzo: Your 30-Minute Cozy Dinner Solution

Creamy Chicken Orzo is a quick, cozy weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes, bursting with flavor and comfort.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Used for sautéing; enhances flavor.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Homemade or low-sodium.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Onion Diced.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved.
  • 2 cups Spinach Can be substituted with kale or swiss chard.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Or substitute with half-and-half.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be used for freshness.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Optional.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chopped.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breast pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add another splash of olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in orzo pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 9-11 minutes until the orzo is al dente, stirring occasionally.
  4. Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, dried oregano, and spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and sauce thickens.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess.

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