This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo One-Pot Dinner is a simple feast! Tender chicken cooked with creamy sauce and pasta flavors makes every bite comforting and delightful.
The best part? You only need one pot, so cleanup is a breeze! I love adding some veggies for extra color—who can resist a dish that’s both tasty and pretty? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta is perfect for creamy dishes! If you can’t find orzo, you can substitute with ditalini or even regular rice, but check the cooking times for adjustments.
Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken for quick cooking. Thighs are juicier and work well too. If you have leftovers, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may not be as thick. For dairy-free needs, try coconut milk or cashew cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano is a close second. Nutritional yeast can be a nice cheesy alternative for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
A common challenge is ensuring the chicken is cooked perfectly without being dry. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by searing chicken on medium-high heat to get that nice golden crust. This locks in juices and flavor.
- Cook it for about 5-6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps redistribute juices inside, so it remains tender when you cut into it.
Follow these tips, and your one-pot dinner will not only be creamy and delicious but will also make you proud with perfectly cooked chicken!
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo One-Pot Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Parmesan chicken and orzo dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, and then about 20 minutes making the sauce and orzo. It’s a quick, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same pan, without cleaning it, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This will keep all those delicious flavors in the pan!
3. Cook the Orzo:
Now, it’s time to add the orzo pasta to the pan. Stir it around for 1-2 minutes to toast it lightly—this adds extra flavor! Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is nearly tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Make it Creamy:
After the orzo is almost cooked, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and butter (if you’re using it). Mix until everything is melted together and the sauce looks creamy and delicious.
5. Add Spinach and Chicken:
Next, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and the red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Stir until the spinach has wilted into the creamy mixture. Now, return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them among the orzo. Allow everything to warm together for 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready to serve, you can either slice the chicken or keep it whole—whichever you prefer. Garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper for that finishing touch!
Enjoy your comforting, creamy chicken and orzo dish as it warms your heart and belly with minimal cleanup afterward!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! If you can’t find orzo, ditalini or even small-shaped pasta like fusilli or rotini work nicely. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose, as some may require longer cooking times.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To lighten it up, consider using less heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for creaminess without as many calories. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to create a more nutrient-dense meal!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens up.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get a deliciously creamy dish while keeping it vegetarian!
