Save This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo is a cozy, TikTok-inspired skillet meal that brings comfort and flavor to your weeknight routine. Featuring juicy seared chicken and tender orzo pasta in a silky garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, it is reminiscent of a rich garlic Parmesan chicken soup with a unique chili mac twist.
Save Whether you are looking for a satisfying family dinner or a meal that feels like a warm hug, this skillet dish delivers on every level. The process of toasting the orzo and deglazing with white wine adds layers of depth that elevate simple ingredients into something truly special.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces), 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- For the Skillet: 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 medium yellow onion (finely diced), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1 cup (200 g) dry orzo pasta, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/2 cup (120 ml) dry white wine or chicken broth, 2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or half-and-half, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cups (60 g) baby spinach (roughly chopped), 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Step 2
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Step 3
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and diced onion; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Step 4
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 5
- Add orzo and red pepper flakes (if using). Toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Step 6
- Deglaze the skillet with white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Step 7
- Pour in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 8
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 9
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy.
- Step 10
- Fold in spinach and cook for another 2 minutes, until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 11
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best cooking experience, use a large deep skillet or sauté pan with a lid. If you prefer extra richness, don't hesitate to add an additional splash of heavy cream or extra Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can swap the baby spinach for kale or even frozen peas if you prefer. To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms for a savory, earthy alternative.
Serviervorschläge
Enjoy this creamy orzo hot out of the skillet. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness of the Parmesan sauce.
Save With its simple preparation and restaurant-quality taste, this one-pot orzo is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. The balance of savory chicken, garlic, and bright spinach makes every bite satisfying.
Cooking Guide
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- → What can I substitute for the orzo pasta?
You can use other small pasta shapes like penne, gemelli, or even rice. Adjust cooking time accordingly and add more liquid if needed as different pastas absorb liquids at different rates.
- → Is this dish freezer-friendly?
While it can be frozen, the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon reheating. For best results, freeze without the final cream and cheese addition, then add fresh when reheating.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and add extra richness. They may take slightly longer to cook through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- → How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?
Stir frequently while the orzo is simmering, especially towards the end when the sauce thickens. If it starts sticking too much, add a small splash of broth or water.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian version.