Name: Chicken Orzo Skillet
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 cup baby spinach (optional); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Zest of 1 lemon (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

This hearty and flavorful one-pan dish features tender chicken, creamy orzo, and a mix of vegetables — a comforting and convenient meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Origin Chicken Orzo Skillet

Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, is common in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. This dish blends classic comfort with modern convenience, turning a few pantry staples into a full, fuss-free dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a complete meal in one skillet — fewer dishes, more flavor. The orzo cooks right in the same pan with the chicken, soaking up all the savory goodness. Creamy, rich, and ready in under 40 minutes!

Also Read : Multigrain Cheela Recipe

Chicken Orzo Skillet

Recipe by RecipeWikki

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

500

kcal

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup baby spinach (optional)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Cook the chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Toast orzo: Stir in orzo and cook for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast.
Simmer: Add broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes or until orzo is tender, stirring occasionally.
Make it creamy: Stir in cream, Parmesan, cooked chicken, and spinach (if using). Cook until heated through and spinach is wilted.
Finish & serve: Add lemon zest for brightness and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot straight from the skillet!

Notes

You can swap spinach with kale or peas for variety.
For a lighter version, use milk instead of cream and skip the cheese.
Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a flavor boost.

Chicken and Orzo