Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Name: Chicken and Orzo Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or lemon juice for garnish (optional)

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Looking for a dinner that’s creamy, flavorful, and comes together in a single pan? This Chicken and Orzo Skillet is exactly what you need. It blends tender chicken, toasted orzo, and a luscious, savory sauce—all made in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a busy home cook, this recipe delivers comfort food that doesn’t compromise on taste or time.

Unlike heavy casseroles or complicated pastas, this one-pan chicken and orzo dish gives you everything you crave—protein, carbs, and rich flavor—in one skillet. The orzo absorbs all the aromatic broth and cream, becoming perfectly silky without turning mushy. Each bite bursts with garlicky goodness, Parmesan depth, and juicy chicken that melts in your mouth.

One of the best parts about this recipe is how it transforms simple pantry staples into something restaurant-worthy. Plus, it’s customizable—add spinach, mushrooms, or even a squeeze of lemon for a bright twist. If you enjoy easy one-pan meals like Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs, this Chicken and Orzo Skillet is about to become your new weeknight favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Comfort Food That’s Easy and Quick

Nothing beats a warm, creamy dinner after a long day, and this Chicken and Orzo Skillet fits the bill perfectly. It takes just a few everyday ingredients and turns them into a comforting meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all afternoon. With orzo cooking right in the same pan as the chicken, cleanup is a breeze—no need for multiple pots or dishes. That’s what makes this meal a true kitchen hero for busy families or anyone short on time.

The toasting step gives orzo a nutty base flavor that deepens the dish’s richness. Meanwhile, the creamy sauce—made from chicken broth, cream, and a touch of Parmesan—coats every grain beautifully. The result is a dish that’s hearty yet light enough to enjoy year-round.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Weeknights often demand fast, reliable meals, and this Chicken and Orzo Skillet recipe delivers exactly that. From start to finish, it takes about 30 minutes, and most of that time is hands-off cooking. The key is simplicity: one skillet, minimal chopping, and ingredients you probably already have on hand.

If you love quick dinners like Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, this recipe brings the same satisfying texture with even less cleanup. It’s a great go-to when you want something homemade without spending your whole evening in the kitchen.

Creamy, Flavorful, and Filling

Every bite of this dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together. The magic happens as the orzo absorbs the savory chicken broth while releasing starch, naturally thickening the sauce. Add a handful of grated Parmesan and a splash of cream, and you’ve got restaurant-quality comfort food right from your stove.

To elevate the flavor even further, try finishing it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice—it cuts through the richness beautifully. You can even serve it alongside a crisp side like Lemon Garlic Green Beans to make it a balanced meal.

Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this creamy Chicken and Orzo Skillet is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Creating a creamy and comforting Chicken and Orzo Skillet starts with a few pantry basics. Each ingredient has a purpose, and together, they make the dish rich, savory, and well-balanced.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Boneless chicken breast or thighs	1 lb	Cut into bite-sized cubes
Orzo pasta	1 cup	Toast briefly for a nutty flavor
Chicken broth	2 cups	Low-sodium preferred
Heavy cream or half-and-half	½ cup	Adds richness
Parmesan cheese	¼ cup	Freshly grated
Garlic	3 cloves	Minced for flavor depth
Onion	½ medium	Finely chopped
Olive oil	2 tbsp	For sautéing
Italian seasoning	1 tsp	Optional for flavor boost
Salt & black pepper	To taste	Adjust before serving

The beauty of this one-pan meal lies in how these ingredients come together in layers—starting with the chicken’s golden sear, then toasting the orzo, and finally simmering everything in a rich, creamy sauce.

If you’re a fan of dishes that balance texture and taste, you might also enjoy the Creamy Tuscan Chicken on our site—it uses similar ingredients but with a bold Mediterranean twist.

One reason the Chicken and Orzo Skillet recipe is so loved is its flexibility. You can tweak it to fit your preferences or pantry stock:

Dairy-free: Replace cream with coconut milk or unsweetened oat cream.
Lighter option: Use low-fat milk or Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter finish.
Extra vegetables: Add spinach, peas, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Protein swaps: Try turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even shrimp for a quick variation.
Gluten-free: Substitute orzo with short-grain rice or gluten-free pasta.

For another adaptable, veggie-forward option, try our Vegetable Orzo Soup, which carries similar comforting flavors in a lighter form.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken and Orzo Skillet

This recipe is all about building flavor step by step—starting with a good sear on the chicken and ending with a creamy finish. Here’s how to make it perfectly every time.

Step 1 – Cook the Chicken

Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until they’re golden on all sides. This process takes about five minutes. The goal is to create a flavorful crust that locks in moisture. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

If you enjoy the golden crust you get here, you’ll also love the technique used in our Pan-Seared Chicken Breast recipe—it follows the same principle of high-heat caramelization for maximum flavor.

Step 2 – Toast and Simmer the Orzo

In the same pan, add another drizzle of oil if needed. Toss in the orzo and stir constantly for one to two minutes until lightly golden and aromatic. This simple step adds depth and prevents sogginess later.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and stir gently to deglaze the pan, scraping up the browned bits left from the chicken. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the orzo simmer uncovered for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when most of the liquid is absorbed but the pasta is still tender and creamy.

Step 3 – Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, along with the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the sauce thickens and coats the orzo beautifully. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then let it simmer for two to three minutes.

To brighten the flavor, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve hot, directly from the skillet—it’s meant to be shared family-style.

For pairing ideas, try it with a crisp side like Garlic Parmesan Asparagus for a complete and balanced meal.

If you want to learn more about perfecting creamy sauces, check out Food Network’s guide on cooking with cream—a helpful reference for beginners and pros alike.

Tips for the Best Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Even though this Chicken and Orzo Skillet recipe is simple, a few professional tips can make it taste like a restaurant-quality dish every time.

Choose the Right Pan

The pan you use can make or break your dish. A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan distributes heat evenly and helps prevent burning. Avoid nonstick pans if you want that beautiful golden sear on your chicken—it’s all about flavor! If you love using cast iron, you might also enjoy our Creamy Chicken Mushroom Skillet recipe, which uses the same one-pan method.

Avoid Overcooking the Orzo

Orzo cooks quickly—usually within 8 to 10 minutes. Overcooking can lead to mushy results. The trick is to simmer it until most of the liquid is absorbed but there’s still a bit of sauce pooling at the bottom. The orzo will continue to thicken as it rests, giving you that ideal creamy consistency without extra cream or cheese.

Flavor Boosters

While the base recipe is already delicious, small tweaks can elevate the flavor even further:

Add lemon zest or a squeeze of juice for brightness.
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or roasted red peppers for color and nutrition.
Finish with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley for a fragrant finish.

If you love bold, creamy flavors, you’ll also want to check out Cajun Chicken Pasta for another skillet-style recipe that’s bursting with personality.

Storing and Reheating Your Chicken and Orzo Skillet

The Chicken and Orzo Skillet is perfect for meal prep since it reheats beautifully without losing texture or flavor.

Refrigerator and Freezer Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When thawing, let it defrost overnight in the fridge for the best results.

Reheating Tips

Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth, milk, or cream to bring back the original creaminess. Avoid microwaving for too long—it can dry out the orzo. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use rice instead of orzo?

Yes, you can. However, rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid, so adjust your broth accordingly. The texture will also be slightly different—more risotto-like than creamy pasta.

What’s the best way to make it creamy without cream?

You can use a mix of Greek yogurt and milk or blend a small amount of cream cheese into the broth. Both options give you a rich, silky texture with fewer calories.

How can I make Chicken and Orzo Skillet gluten-free?

Simply replace traditional orzo with gluten-free orzo or short-grain rice. Everything else in the recipe remains the same.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can cook the chicken and orzo ahead and refrigerate separately. When ready to serve, combine and warm with a splash of broth and cream to refresh the sauce.

Conclusion – A One-Pan Chicken Dinner You’ll Make Again and Again

If you’re craving comfort food that doesn’t require a sink full of dishes, this Chicken and Orzo Skillet is your answer. Creamy, flavorful, and ready in minutes, it proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or cooking a cozy dinner for family, this dish checks all the boxes: satisfying, customizable, and utterly delicious. Try it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation.

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