Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet

Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and easy to whip up on a busy weeknight? The Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet might just be your new go-to recipe. This one-pan meal blends the robust flavors of seasoned chicken with the creamy texture of orzo pasta, all enhanced with fresh vegetables and a rich basil pesto. Here’s how to bring this satisfying dish to your table in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Orzo:

• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 10 oz cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
• 2 cups chicken stock
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup basil pesto

Directions

1. Sear the Chicken:
   • Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into thinner strips for even cooking.
   • Season generously with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, and place the chicken strips in the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Once done, set the chicken aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Orzo:
   • Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add another tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic and uncooked orzo. Sauté until the orzo is lightly browned.
   • Pour in the chicken stock, add half of the sliced cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then lower it to maintain a simmer. Let it cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
   • Add the fresh spinach and the remaining tomatoes. Continue cooking until the spinach has wilted.
3. Combine and Finish:
   • Stir in the heavy cream and basil pesto into the skillet. Return the seared chicken to the pan, mixing well to ensure the flavors meld. Simmer for a few more minutes until the chicken is thoroughly heated and the sauce thickens slightly.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 650 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Cooking Tips

• Protein Variations: You can easily substitute chicken for turkey strips or even shrimp for a delightful twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and double the amount of vegetables, or add mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.
• Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness.

Conclusion

The Creamy Chicken Orzo Skillet is perfect for those evenings when you need a quick yet hearty meal. It’s packed with flavor and everything cooks in one skillet, which means minimal cleanup. Try this recipe tonight and watch it become a family favorite!