Chicken and Orzo

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Here’s a delicious and comforting recipe for Chicken and Orzo, a flavorful dish with tender chicken and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all tossed together in a light, savory sauce!

Chicken and Orzo Recipe

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
  • 1/2 cup spinach or peas (optional for added veggies)

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken:
    • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
  2. Cook the orzo:
    • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
    • Add the orzo to the skillet and stir to coat it in the oil and onion mixture.
    • Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook the orzo for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  3. Make the sauce:
    • Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and lemon juice.
    • Add the spinach or peas (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt or the peas to warm through.
    • Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano, if desired.
  4. Combine and serve:
    • Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet with the orzo mixture, stirring to combine and heat through.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Customization:

  • Add veggies: Include sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
  • Cheesy version: Stir in more Parmesan or even some mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy texture.
  • Lighter version: Use whole-wheat orzo and substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream.

Would you like side dish or drink suggestions to pair with this Chicken and Orzo?

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