Description
This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken recipe delivers a rich, velvety sauce that coats tender chicken bites and perfectly cooked orzo. The blend of Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and sautéed garlic creates a comforting, restaurant‑style dish that’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive for guests. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve hot for a satisfying family dinner that balances protein and carbs in every bite. It pairs with a fresh green salad and chilled grape juice.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5‑7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add orzo and stir for 2 minutes to toast.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until orzo is tender, about 10‑12 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet, mix well, and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For a lower‑fat version
- substitute half of the heavy cream with low‑fat milk. Use whole‑grain orzo for added fiber. The dish can be made ahead and reheated with a splash of broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Family Dinners
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken, easy chicken dinner, creamy pasta recipe, quick weeknight meals, orzo chicken casserole, Parmesan orzo recipe, one pot chicken dinner, family friendly meals, comfort food recipes