Mushroom & Chicken Orzo – One Skillet Magic
Introduction
Mushroom & Chicken Orzo is a delightful and comforting dish that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. This one-skillet recipe combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy orzo pasta to create a satisfying meal. Best of all, it’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it is quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it features wholesome ingredients that provide both flavor and nutrition. Third, because it is all made in one skillet, you’ll save time on cooking and cleaning. Enjoying a delicious home-cooked meal doesn’t get easier than this!
How to Make Mushroom & Chicken Orzo
Here’s a simple guide to making Mushroom & Chicken Orzo that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season it with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until soft, about 2 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are golden and tender.
- Stir in the orzo, toasting it lightly for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Stir until everything becomes creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix well. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
How to Serve Mushroom & Chicken Orzo
Mushroom & Chicken Orzo is best served warm. You can enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top for added flavor or serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
How to Store Mushroom & Chicken Orzo
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the texture.
Tips to Make Mushroom & Chicken Orzo
- Use a mix of mushrooms for added flavor. Shiitake or portobello mushrooms can enhance the dish.
- If you want a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes when cooking the onions.
- For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Variation
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, like spinach or peas. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or keep it vegetarian by omitting the chicken entirely and using vegetable broth instead.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe, but cooking times may vary.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, orzo is typically made from wheat. However, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or other grains at the store.
3. Can I freeze Mushroom & Chicken Orzo?
It’s best to eat it fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze it. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months!
Enjoy making this easy and delicious Mushroom & Chicken Orzo. Your family is sure to love it!
