If you're on the hunt for a comforting and indulgent meal that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, look no further than this Easy Creamy Chicken Orzo! This Italian-inspired dish combines tender orzo pasta with succulent shredded chicken, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner, this recipe is not just quick and easy; it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into the recipe below and discover how to create a dish that’s both satisfying and simple!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Ensure the pan is large enough to accommodate all ingredients.
- Pour chicken broth into the pan and bring to a gentle simmer. Add orzo pasta and stir to prevent sticking.
- Cook orzo for approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. The orzo should be al dente with a slight bite.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, creating a creamy base for the dish. Mix thoroughly to prevent scorching.
- Add shredded cooked chicken to the orzo, stirring gently to distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet, stirring until the cheese melts and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for added color and fresh herb flavor.
- Serve hot, directly from the skillet, ensuring each portion has a good mix of orzo, chicken, and creamy sauce.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can shred your cooked chicken in advance. Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe and adds extra flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks; it should be al dente. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so taste it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half for a slightly less rich sauce.
- Add Vegetables: For a nutritional boost, consider adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes. They can be stirred in when you add the chicken for added color and flavor.
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Taste your dish before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking for the best flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor. Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat!
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the skillet. If you have leftovers, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to revive the creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 110mg
