Chicken and Orzo Recipe

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This Chicken and Orzo dish is a delicious, one-pan meal that’s full of flavor. The tender chicken is paired with orzo pasta in a creamy garlic and lemon sauce, making it the perfect dinner for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano

For the Orzo:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional, for added depth of flavor)
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme (or oregano).
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
    • Once cooled slightly, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Orzo:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2-3 minutes, lightly toasting the orzo.
    • Add the white wine (if using) and let it cook for 1-2 minutes until mostly absorbed.
  3. Make the Sauce:
    • Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
    • Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
  4. Combine and Serve:
    • Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine. Let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips

  • You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the dish for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • For a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or use more chicken broth.
  • To add a little extra richness, sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top before serving.

Enjoy this creamy, comforting Chicken and Orzo dish!

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