Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo with Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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I love making this creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo with Cheese meal that brings together tender chicken, buttery garlic, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. The melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add a rich, satisfying finish that makes it a comforting dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup orzo pasta

2 ½ cups chicken broth

½ cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat. Then, I add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant.

Next, I add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. I cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden and cooked through. Once done, I remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, I add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

I pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then I reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

I stir in the heavy cream, cooked chicken, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. I cook it for another 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until the cheese is melted and everything is creamy.

Finally, I garnish with fresh parsley if I want a bit of color and serve it hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep time is about 10 minutes, cooking takes roughly 25 minutes, making the total time around 35 minutes.

Variations

For a gluten-free option, I use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice or quinoa.

To add veggies, I stir in spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes just before adding the cheese.

For a spicier kick, I sprinkle in some red pepper flakes with the garlic.

You can swap mozzarella for cheddar or gouda for a different cheesy flavor.

For a lighter version, I replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt stirred in at the end.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the orzo creamy and prevent it from drying out. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more flavor and stay juicy. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.

Is orzo the same as rice?

No, orzo is a pasta shaped like rice, but it cooks quicker and has a chewier texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and replace cheese with dairy-free alternatives.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or full-fat milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken can work. Greek yogurt added at the end is another option for creaminess.

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo?

I don’t recommend freezing this dish because the creamy texture might change after thawing, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and broth separately to combine fresh when ready.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo with Cheese is one of my favorite quick and comforting meals. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, all cooked in one skillet, making dinner simple and satisfying. I always feel good about serving this to family and friends, knowing it hits that perfect cozy spot.

Recipe:

Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo with Cheese

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A creamy, cheesy one-skillet meal featuring tender chicken, garlic butter, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, finished with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a comforting dinner.

Instructions

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Add orzo to the same skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Stir in heavy cream, cooked chicken, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until cheese is melted and creamy.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.