Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo
Introduction
Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. This recipe is easy to follow and will become a favorite in your home. With rich flavors and a creamy texture, it’s perfect for any night of the week.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to love Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo. It’s quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of garlic, cream, and chicken creates a rich flavor that is satisfying and comforting. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes and easy cleanup!
How to Make Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo
Making Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo is simple and straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the orzo to the skillet and stir for 1 minute to toast it slightly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and the cooked chicken. Let everything simmer for another 2–3 minutes until creamy and well combined.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
How to Serve Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo
Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo can be served right from the skillet. For a nice touch, you can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley on top before serving. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
How to Store Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy.
Tips to Make Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo
- Make sure to cut the chicken into even pieces for faster cooking.
- Don’t skip toasting the orzo; it adds a nice flavor to the dish.
- For a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or peas. For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with more chicken broth.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with another small pasta like ditalini or even rice if desired. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo is great for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat when ready to eat.
3. Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to thaw frozen chicken before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture in the final dish.
Try making Garlic Cream Chicken Orzo for your next meal. It’s a delicious and easy recipe that you and your family will enjoy!
