Go Back

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is a rich, comforting one-pan dinner made with tender, juicy chicken simmered in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce with perfectly cooked orzo. It combines the cozy flavors of creamy smothered chicken and rice with the elegance of a creamy pasta dish — all in one skillet.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach optional
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Season & Sear the Chicken
  2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  5. Toast the Orzo
  6. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
  7. Add uncooked orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
  8. Create the Creamy Sauce
  9. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well.
  10. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  11. Simmer Together
  12. Return chicken to the skillet.
  13. Cover and cook 12–15 minutes until orzo is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
  14. Finish with Parmesan
  15. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  16. Add spinach if desired and cook until wilted.
  17. Serve
  18. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.

Notes

  • For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra Tuscan flavor.
  • This dish can be transferred to a baking dish and baked for a quick chicken orzo bake variation.
  • Similar in comfort to smothered chicken and rice, but with a creamy pasta twist.