Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Chicken

There’s something oh-so-comforting about a dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Welcome to my kitchen, where I’ll share with you my go-to recipe for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Chicken. This delightful dish is perfect for family dinners or when you’re in the mood for something extra special. Trust me, once you serve this up, your loved ones will be begging for seconds.

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is unique because it pairs the succulent flavors of chicken with a lush, garlicky cream sauce that just hits all the right notes. And let’s not forget the orzo, little pasta pearls that soak up all that deliciousness. This dish not only tastes amazing but is also pleasing to the eye, making it a star at any dinner table. Plus, it’s relatively easy to whip up, so you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds); swap with turkey or tofu for a different protein
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2:

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 3:

Add the orzo to the skillet. Pour in 2 cups of water, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.

Step 4:

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until everything is creamy and combined.

Step 5:

Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the sauce. Allow it to warm through for 2-3 minutes.

Step 6:

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious meal.

Nutritional Information

This recipe serves 6 and is packed with flavor. Each serving usually contains about 450 calories, with a healthy mix of protein and carbohydrates. It’s rich and creamy, but perfect for that occasional indulgence.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Additionally, using whole-wheat orzo can add more fiber to your meal. You can also try swapping the Parmesan for a lower-fat cheese option.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. It’s also fantastic with a glass of white wine for those cozy nights in. For an added touch, you could serve it alongside my Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo for a pasta extravaganza.

Common Mistakes

One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the chicken. Keep an eye on it, and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s reached 165°F. Also, avoid boiling the cream for too long as it can thicken too much and change the flavor. Lastly, make sure to stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking.

Chef’s Notes

• Don’t have orzo? You can substitute with rice or even small pasta shapes.
• This is a great meal prep dish; it stores well and can easily be reheated.
• Feel free to add steamed broccoli or spinach into the mix for a nutritious boost.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
  A1: Absolutely; Thighs will add even more flavor and tenderness to the dish.
• Q2: How do I store leftovers?
  A2: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
• Q3: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
  A3: Sure thing; Just replace the chicken with your favorite protein, like chickpeas or mushrooms, and follow the rest of the recipe as is.

So there you have it. A scrumptious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe that is bound to impress. I hope you give this a try and enjoy all the creamy, garlicky goodness. Don’t forget to check out my Cream Cheese Chicken Parmesan for another delightful dish to try out in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Print