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Easy One Pan Chicken Orzo Recipe for a Creamy Comforting Dinner

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A quick and easy one-pan chicken and orzo dish that delivers creamy texture and comforting flavor with minimal cleanup. Perfect for cozy nights and simple weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (about 6 ounces)
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown for 4-5 minutes per side until golden but not fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside, keeping the oil in the pan.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onion is soft and translucent and garlic is fragrant.
  4. Add orzo to the pan and stir to coat with oil and aromatics. Pour in chicken broth, stir once, scrape browned bits from the bottom, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Nestle browned chicken thighs back into the pan, partially submerged in broth. Cover and simmer gently for 12-15 minutes until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
  6. Remove lid and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
  7. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan or parsley.

Notes

If orzo isn’t tender when liquid is absorbed, add a splash of broth or water and cook a few minutes longer. Use a lid to trap steam and cook orzo evenly. Browning chicken adds flavor and texture. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and omit Parmesan or use dairy-free cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pan chicken orzo, creamy chicken dinner, easy chicken recipe, comfort food, quick dinner, creamy orzo, one pot meal

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