Creamy Mushroom & Chicken Orzo – One Skillet Magic
Creamy Mushroom & Chicken Orzo is a hearty dish that brings comfort to any table. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce enveloping the orzo pasta, this one-skillet meal is sure to please everyone. It is simple, delicious, and can be made in under 30 minutes!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but satisfying. The best part is that you only need one skillet, which means less time spent cleaning up afterward. Plus, the combination of flavors makes it a favorite for both kids and adults. You’ll love how creamy and comforting it is!
How to Make Creamy Mushroom & Chicken Orzo
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 300g chicken breast, sliced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt & black pepper
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken and cook until lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic until they are soft.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it slightly for about a minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- After 10 minutes, stir in the cream, Parmesan cheese, and the cooked chicken.
- Cook for 5 more minutes until the mixture is creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom & Chicken Orzo
Serve this dish warm, straight from the skillet, for a cozy meal. You can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top makes it even more delicious!
How to Store Creamy Mushroom & Chicken Orzo
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3 days. To reheat, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creaminess when warming it up.
Tips to Make Creamy Mushroom & Chicken Orzo
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- Toasting the orzo in the skillet enhances its flavor.
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best taste; they provide richer flavor than canned ones.
- Feel free to adjust the cream and cheese to suit your preference for creaminess.
Variation
You can easily add vegetables like spinach or peas to this recipe to include more nutrients. If you prefer, swap the chicken for shrimp or make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more mushrooms.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or shells, but cooking times may vary.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: No, orzo is made from wheat. However, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Just reheat gently on the stovetop and add a little broth or cream as needed.
