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Creamy Parmesan Chicken Orzo served in a skillet with spinach and garlic.

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Orzo

A cozy, one-pan dinner featuring juicy chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, and silky orzo that is perfect for weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 to 1.25 pounds chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces Thighs stay moist, breasts can dry out if overcooked.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Optional but adds flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup dry orzo Orzo is a type of pasta.
  • 2.5 cups chicken broth Start with 2.25 cups, add more if needed.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half and half for a lighter sauce.
  • 3/4 to 1 cup freshly grated parmesan Grate your own for best results.
  • 1 handful spinach Optional, can add peas or mushrooms too.
  • 1 squeeze lemon Optional, adds brightness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in a single layer for a couple of minutes until browned.
  3. Flip chicken and cook until mostly done, then move to a plate.
Cooking
  1. In the same pan, lower heat to medium and add a bit more oil if needed. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  2. Add orzo and stir for 1 minute until glossy and toasty.
  3. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the browned bits from the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often until orzo is close to al dente. Reduce heat to low.
  5. Stir in cream, then add parmesan gradually while stirring until melted.
  6. Return chicken and any juices to the pan, adding spinach if using, until wilted.
  7. Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Notes

Grate your own parmesan for smoother melting. Stir regularly while orzo simmers to prevent sticking.