Description
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is a comforting dish that marries tender chicken and delicate orzo pasta in a rich, velvety sauce. Infused with the aromatic goodness of garlic and fresh spinach, each bite offers a delightful blend of flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home, this easy-to-make recipe allows for customization based on your pantry staples, making it a versatile addition to any dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
- Add garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant.
- Cook the orzo: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Create the sauce: Lower the heat, mix in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Stir in spinach until wilted.
- Combine everything: Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss gently to coat in sauce.
- Serve: Plate portions, topping with additional Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg