Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fluffy orzo pasta in one pan. This recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of flavors and textures makes this meal a family favorite!
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet. First, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you! Second, it’s packed with protein and veggies, making it a healthy option. Plus, the creamy ricotta and Parmesan add a richness that everyone will love. It’s quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish, so you can enjoy a warm and satisfying dinner without spending all evening in the kitchen.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion until soft.
- Add garlic and orzo. Toast the orzo for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cook uncovered, stirring often, for 8–10 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in milk, ricotta, Parmesan, and the cooked chicken. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until creamy.
- Fold in spinach and lemon zest. Cook until the spinach wilts.
- Season to taste and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet warm, straight from the pan. It makes a filling meal by itself, but you can also pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete dinner. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Store Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
To store any leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to help loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
- Make sure the chicken is cut into small, even pieces for quick cooking.
- Stir the orzo often to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
- Adjust the creaminess by increasing or decreasing the amount of ricotta or milk based on your preference.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning.
Variation
You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini. If you want a different protein, feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a tasty twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes! You can use any small pasta, like ditalini or mini penne, but cooking time may vary, so check the package instructions.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: This recipe is not gluten-free as it uses orzo pasta. However, you can use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta instead.
Q: Can I freeze Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet?
A: Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy ingredients, which may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
