Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe: Easy Comfort Food
Quick and tasty cheesy chicken orzo with tender seared chicken and orzo pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce, ready in 30 minutes.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder adjust to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika or to taste
- 1 teaspoon salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken cubes; season with thyme, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through, about 8 minutes.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Add about 3 quarts of water to the skillet; bring to a boil.
- Stir in orzo and cook for 8 to 9 minutes or until tender.
- Drain the orzo and return it to the skillet.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, milk, butter, and Dijon mustard (if using) until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add fresh baby spinach and stir until wilted, about 1 minute.
- Return cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine.
- Serve hot and enjoy your creamy cheesy chicken orzo!
Notes
This hearty and creamy dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or swap spinach according to preference.