bring on the orzo…

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe


chn orzo close

It’s start in the browning…

Now the orzo makes this dish special but what really takes it over the top is the chicken and creamy sauce.

To start building the flavor and to make the chicken stand out it all starts with browning it.  When you season it (really well) and then put it in a HOT skillet magic happens.  A deep brown crust starts to form and creates a delicious seal that keeps are the yummy juices inside the chicken…where they belong.  Now as good as that sounds…it is just the beginning.

chn orzo chick

All together now

Now after the chicken is all nice and brown it is time for the real fun to begin.  It is time to start building even more flavor…so let’s start with some onions and garlic.  I mean come on most good dishes seem to start with one of the two so lets just use both…I mean why not?

A key step in this process is to add in the orzo after the onion and garlic have softened a bit to allow it to toast a little.  Yes, I said let the orzo toast a little.  I know it may sound crazy, I thought it was a little crazy, but I have to tell you, it really adds in some great flavor.  Just trust me…give it a chance.

chn orzo skilletSo after the orzo has had time to toast for a minute or two it is time to add in the liquid and a little bit of healthy to the mix.  Yes, I said a little healthy something…don’t worry I won’t tell anyone if you don’t.    You can use kale, arugula or a spring mix…whatever you have in hand.  I threw in some spinach,  but almost any green will work.

After everything is combined, nestle the chicken in and then let it cook…in a matter of minutes yu will have a rich and creamy chicken dish everyone will love.

The How To…

Skillet Chiciken & Orzo

This quick skillet dinner is loaded with flavor and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp Olive Oil, divided
  • 1 lb` Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (or thighs)
  • 1 Tbsp All-Purpose Seasoning (or even parts of salt, pepper and garlic powder)
  • 1 small Onion, chopped
  • 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
  • 2 Cups Orzo
  • 2 Cups Half & Half
  • 3 Cups Chicken Stock (or broth)
  • 1-2 Cups Fresh Spinach (or leafy greenof choice)
  • 1 Cup Parmesan Cheese, Grated
  • 2-3 Tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  • In a large skillet add in 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil and heat over medium heat
  • Season Chicken with all-purpose seaosning on both sides
  • Add into skillet, and let cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until nice and golden brown
  • Once browned on both sides remove to a plat
  • To the same skillet add in remaining olive oil & chopped onion
  • Cook for 5 minutes, or until onion is starting to soften
  • Stir in garlic and cooke for 1 minute
  • Add in orzo and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often (we are toasting the orzo)
  • Pour in half & half & chicken stock and bring to a boil
  • Let cook for 5 minutes or until it has redecued by 1/3, stirring often
  • Stir in spinach
  • Nestle chicken back into pan
  • Reduce heat to low and cover skillet
  • Cook for 20 minutes or until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through
  • Remove chicken and stir in parmesan cheese
  • Serve with chicken and fresh parsley and dinner is done
  • ENJOY!
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

I know this time of year can be super crazy, but don’t worry…this dish will make dinner a breeze.  You can get this going after you get home from work, school & activities and it will be something everyone loves.

sprouts-4

Make today sparkle – MJ

You May Also Like

Quick and easy lunch with some pesto love

June 12, 2017

Skillet Lemon Chicken

July 8, 2020

One Pot Cajun Pasta

July 2, 2018

40 Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.