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Delightful Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo

Delightful Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo Skillet Bliss

This Delightful Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is an easy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy Parmesan, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Skillet
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Use any neutral oil if preferred.
  • 4 pieces Chicken Breasts Substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Replace with dried herbs like oregano if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for stronger flavor (2 cloves).
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste; sea salt can work as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Use freshly ground for best flavor.
  • 1 medium Shallots Onions or green onions can be alternatives.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (grated/minced) Use a microplane for easy mincing.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Orzo Substitute with another small pasta like ditalini if needed.
  • 3 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or water in a pinch.
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Kale can be used as an alternative.
  • 4 ounces Herbed Goat Cheese Boursin or cream cheese can be substituted for a similar texture.
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese Grate from a block for a better melt; nutritional yeast may be an option for vegan versions.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Leaves Flat-leaf parsley can be a substitution.

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Sauté the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, add a splash more olive oil if needed and toss in the chopped shallots and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the shallots are soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.
  3. Pour in 3 cups of low sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the broth to a gentle boil before adding 1 cup of orzo. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 12 minutes, stirring often until the orzo is al dente.
  4. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in 2 cups of baby spinach, 4 ounces of herbed goat cheese, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh thyme leaves. Gently mix until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, creating a creamy sauce.
  5. Return the browned chicken to the skillet and nestle it into the orzo mixture. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and a few thyme leaves on top. Let it heat through for a minute, then serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best flavor and texture, try to consume the dish shortly after preparation, but following storage tips will keep your meal delightful.

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