Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and orzo pasta in a medley of flavors. This dish is perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even entertaining guests. With its rich and comforting profile, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ricotta cheese, fresh basil, and spices creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Meal: You can easily modify this recipe to suit dietary preferences, such as using dairy-free ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It serves four, making it ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well and is perfect for browning chicken evenly while being oven safe.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without damaging your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound boneless (skinless) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 large shallot (halved and thinly sliced)
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms (thinly sliced)
• 4 cups baby spinach (packed)
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• ½ cup dry white apple vinegar
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• Zest of ½ lemon
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¾ cup whole milk ricotta cheese (sub dairy-free ricotta for dairy-free; I like Kite Hill brand)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (omit for dairy-free or use dairy-free cheese)

For Garnish

• ¼ cup thinly sliced basil leaves (for serving)

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375℉. This will ensure that your dish cooks evenly once it’s time to bake.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

• Heat the oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken along with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes.
• Toss to combine and spread the chicken into a single layer.
• Cook until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked since it will finish in the oven.
• Transfer the browned chicken to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

• In the same skillet, add garlic, shallot, and mushrooms.
• Cook while tossing occasionally until mushrooms soften and shallots are tender (about 4 minutes).
• Reduce heat to medium; add baby spinach. Gently toss until just wilted (about 2 minutes).
• Add white apple vinegar; cook until reduced by half (about 2 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• Add uncooked orzo to the skillet; toss to combine.
• Pour in chicken broth along with lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and ricotta cheese. Stir until well mixed.
• Bring mixture to a simmer and return the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until combined. Spread contents into a single layer.

Step 5: Bake

Sprinkle mozzarella on top of the dish. Transfer to oven and bake until orzo is tender and cheese is bubbly (about 15 minutes). After baking, let rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Top with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet!

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Serving your Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is just as important as preparing it. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance its flavors. Here are some great suggestions for serving.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and a lovely pop of color.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley provides freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens dressed with olive oil and vinegar complements the creamy orzo.
• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and creamy dressing contrasts beautifully with the skillet.

Add Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve slices of warm sourdough to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Garlic Bread: The garlicky flavors enhance the Italian essence of the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Perfecting your Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve a restaurant-quality dish at home.

• Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality chicken and vegetables enhances the overall flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Slightly undercooked chicken will finish cooking in the oven, ensuring it remains juicy.
• Monitor Orzo Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your orzo; overcooked pasta can become mushy.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference for heat or flavor profiles.
• Experiment with Cheese Options: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for unique flavor variations.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest helps thicken the sauce and improve texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its creamy goodness.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli roasted in garlic enhances both flavor and nutrition.
2. Lemon Asparagus: Lightly sautéed asparagus tossed with lemon zest brings brightness to your plate.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make for a refreshing side that echoes Italian flavors.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with creaminess.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf provides a nutty contrast while adding extra protein.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a comforting side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can impact your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the chicken properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s golden brown for depth in taste.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Adding too much chicken or vegetables at once can lead to steaming instead of sautéing. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Ignoring the seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and spices as needed for a well-seasoned meal.
• Not letting it rest after baking: Cutting into the dish immediately after baking can result in a soupy consistency. Allow it to rest for 3-5 minutes to let the sauce thicken.
• Neglecting the fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness and flavor. Don’t skip it; add it just before serving for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉, place the skillet covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet dairy-free?

Yes! Simply substitute dairy-free ricotta cheese and omit mozzarella or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What can I serve with Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I know when the orzo is cooked?

The orzo should be tender but still al dente. Taste it towards the end of cooking to check its doneness.

Can I use different proteins in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for variety.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is not only delicious but also highly versatile. This one-pan meal offers rich flavors and comforting textures that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins; it’s perfect for any occasion! Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!

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Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a delectable one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and orzo pasta, all cooked together for an explosion of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this meal is not only quick to prepare but also promises minimal cleanup. The delightful medley of fresh ingredients such as baby spinach and mushrooms ensures each bite is comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Garlic cloves
• Shallot
• Baby bella mushrooms
• Baby spinach
• Uncooked orzo pasta
• Dry white apple vinegar
• Low sodium chicken broth
• Whole milk ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook until golden brown (5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic, shallots, and mushrooms until softened (about 4 minutes). Add spinach and toss until wilted (2 minutes). Stir in white apple vinegar and reduce by half.
4. Add uncooked orzo, chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and ricotta cheese. Mix thoroughly. Return the chicken to the skillet and spread evenly.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 15 minutes until bubbly. Let rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 85mg