Description
This creamy garlic chicken orzo skillet is a one-pan wonder, featuring tender, spice-rubbed chicken thighs nestled into a bed of buttery orzo pasta. Finished with a garlic-infused cream sauce and Parmesan cheese, it’s the ultimate cozy weeknight dinner that’s as rich in flavor as it is easy to make.
Ingredients
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups dry orzo pasta
1½ cups vegetable broth
½ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides generously with the spice mixture.
3. Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook without moving it for about 5 minutes, until nicely browned. Flip and cook the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to low. Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in the orzo and vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet on top of the orzo.
6. Cover the skillet, increase the heat to medium-high, and bring the liquid to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside briefly.
8. Stir the cream and butter into the orzo and cook gently until the butter melts and the sauce is hot and creamy.
9. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until fully combined.
10. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Serve warm.
Notes
To add more veggies, stir in spinach or peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Swap the heavy cream for oat cream or half-and-half for a lighter version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: One-pan skillet
- Cuisine: American