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.

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.

So 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.

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Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 40

Servings:

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.