If you are craving a comforting, creamy dinner that’s bursting with flavor, then you are going to fall in love with this Tender Chicken Orzo with Parmesan Recipe. It combines juicy, tender pieces of chicken with the nutty richness of Parmesan and the subtle bite of orzo pasta, all cooked together in a luscious, velvety sauce. This dish is a perfect weeknight meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a household favorite thanks to its perfectly balanced taste and satisfying texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this dish are simple but essential, each playing its part in creating that rich, creamy, and satisfying experience. From the tender chicken to the Parmesan and lemon juice, every component brings flavor, texture, or a pop of color to the plate.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This provides a flavorful base to cook the chicken and sauté the veggies.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Bite-sized pieces ensure quick and even cooking with juicy results.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and pasta.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat that complements the creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the chicken’s flavor with warm, garlicky depth.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and fragrant aromatic base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic intensifies the overall savory notes.
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta: Tiny pasta pearls that absorb flavors beautifully.
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses orzo and chicken with rich savory taste.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and luscious texture to the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty sharpness that makes this dish irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Gives a fresh, bright note that balances the richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that introduces classic Mediterranean flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds color and a subtle herbaceous finish.
How to Make Tender Chicken Orzo with Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Cook the chicken
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it warms, season the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are beautifully browned and fully cooked through. This step locks in juiciness and forms a flavorful base for the dish. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside, making room to build the next layers of flavor.
Step 2: Sauté onions and garlic
Using the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion, letting it cook until softened and fragrant for about 2 to 3 minutes. This slow sauté enhances its natural sweetness and creates depth. Then stir in the minced garlic along with the orzo pasta. Toast the orzo for 1 to 2 minutes while stirring regularly—this little toasting step is what gives the pasta a subtle nuttiness and prevents it from getting mushy later on.
Step 3: Simmer with broth
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth to the skillet and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes while stirring occasionally. The orzo will absorb most of the broth, becoming tender but still pleasantly firm. This simmering process melds the flavors intensely, setting the stage for your creamy finish.
Step 4: Add cream, cheese, and seasoning
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, creating that signature silky sauce. Add the lemon juice and Italian seasoning, which lift the dish with bright and herbaceous notes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring everything together to evenly distribute the rich sauce and flavors. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until your meal is heated through and irresistibly creamy.
How to Serve Tender Chicken Orzo with Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled over the dish not only adds a beautiful pop of green but also a mild, refreshing bitterness that balances the creamy sauce perfectly. Feel free to add a few chili flakes for a touch of warmth or extra Parmesan for those cheese lovers.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides so the flavors can shine. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette provides a bright contrast, while roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli complement the creaminess. Garlic bread can also bring a delightful crunch that soaks up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the Tender Chicken Orzo with Parmesan Recipe in small ramekins or shallow bowls topped with a sprig of fresh herb and an extra dusting of Parmesan. It can also be layered in a casserole dish and baked briefly with an additional sprinkle of cheese for a golden crust. The possibilities are endless and always delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as tasty the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Make sure it has cooled completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers. To prevent texture changes, add a little extra cream when reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Microwave reheating works too but requires stirring halfway through for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually a great choice for this recipe as they stay extra tender and juicy, enhancing the dish’s richness without any changes in cooking time.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?
You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich and creamy but still delicious.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, stirring in fresh spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes towards the end of cooking adds beautiful color, texture, and flavor without overpowering the dish.
How do I make the orzo perfectly tender?
Simmer the orzo uncovered in broth, stirring occasionally, and keeping an eye on the timing ensures it cooks evenly and absorbs just the right amount of liquid for tenderness and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! This Tender Chicken Orzo with Parmesan Recipe reheats wonderfully and makes a hearty, satisfying meal to enjoy throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Tender Chicken Orzo with Parmesan Recipe, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a go-to dinner. It’s comforting, creamy, and packed with flavor while still being remarkably simple to prepare. Whether you need a cozy solo meal or something impressive for guests, this recipe won’t disappoint. So grab your skillet and dive in—you’re about to experience one of the most satisfying dinner dishes ever!
Print
Tender Chicken Orzo with Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
Tender Chicken Orzo with Parmesan is a creamy and comforting Italian-American skillet meal featuring bite-sized pieces of seasoned chicken cooked with orzo pasta in a savory blend of chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. This easy one-pan dinner is perfect for a flavorful and satisfying weeknight dinner, garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Liquids
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil and Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Toast the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the skillet and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently to lightly toast it and enhance its flavor.
- Simmer the Orzo: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to create a creamy sauce.
- Combine Chicken and Finish Cooking: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes until heated through and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- For added vegetables, stir in fresh spinach, peas, or chopped sun-dried tomatoes at the end of cooking.
- You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter, lower-fat option.
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result, or chicken breasts for leaner protein.
- Make sure to stir the orzo frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
