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.
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)
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.
Notes
For gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice or quinoa.
Add veggies like spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes before adding cheese for variation.
Sprinkle red pepper flakes with garlic for a spicy kick.
Swap mozzarella for cheddar or gouda for different cheese flavors.
Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently with added broth or cream to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
