Creamy Chicken Orzo

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large, deep pan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (for Parmesan)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Orzo

Follow these simple steps to create this delectable dish:

1. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep pan and melt the butter. Add the cubed chicken breast and cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, or until slightly golden. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pan, add the diced shallot and cook for 1-2 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and oregano, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Orzo: Stir in the orzo and toast for about a minute. Pour in the chicken stock, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.
4. Incorporate Spinach and Lemon: Stir in the baby spinach and lemon juice. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.
5. Finish the Sauce: Add the half and half and stir to combine. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Season and Serve: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately, with extra grated Parmesan on top if desired.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Orzo

• Cream Options: For a richer sauce, substitute half and half with heavy cream (double cream). Keep in mind that the orzo will thicken naturally as it cools down.
• Customizable Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Chicken Alternatives: You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for a quicker preparation.

Storage and Leftovers

Creamy chicken orzo is perfect for leftovers. Store any extra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen the sauce.

Food and Drink Pairings

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the creamy texture. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon makes a great match.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous, but cooking times may vary.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? A: Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Q: Can I freeze creamy chicken orzo? A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little chicken stock if needed.

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