Creamy Garlic Chicken with Orzo

Creamy garlic chicken with orzo is a rich, comforting one-pan dish featuring tender chicken, creamy garlic-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. This dish is quick to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A one-pan meal with easy cleanup.
• Creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor.
• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile—pairs well with vegetables or extra protein.
• Perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil
• Butter

For the Creamy Orzo:

• Orzo pasta
• Garlic (minced)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Directions

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Cooking the Orzo:

3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add more butter if needed, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
4. Cook the Orzo: Stir in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Simmer: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Making it Creamy:

6. Add Cream & Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Return the Chicken: Add the seared chicken back into the pan and let it warm through for 2-3 minutes.
8. Finish & Serve: Stir in lemon juice (if using), garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for heat. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Vegetable Additions: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lower-fat version.
• Cheese Substitute: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free orzo or swap with rice for a risotto-style dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking for even searing.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Adding a bit of cornstarch can help thicken it.

What’s the best way to keep chicken from getting dry?

Cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), then let it rest before slicing.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead for quicker cooking.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?

Stir frequently and ensure there is enough liquid while cooking.

What other proteins can I use?

Shrimp, salmon, or turkey work well as substitutes.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish well.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let it simmer longer, or add more Parmesan cheese to help thicken it.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta type.

Conclusion

Creamy garlic chicken with orzo is a simple yet elegant meal packed with rich flavors and a creamy, comforting texture. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this quick and satisfying dish is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

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Description

This Creamy Garlic Chicken with Orzo is a comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

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Instructions

• Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
• In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
• Add orzo and cook for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth and let simmer until orzo is tender.
• Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and diced tomatoes.
• Return chicken to the pan and let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

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Notes

• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Add spinach for extra nutrition.