Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo

Save this recipe on:

I love making Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo when I need something cozy, hearty, and packed with flavor — but still quick enough to whip up on a busy night. The creamy, cheesy orzo wraps around juicy pieces of chicken, all brought together with a hint of garlic, fresh herbs, and a touch of lemon for balance. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like it took hours to make, but really, you can have it on the table in under 30 minutes.

This dish was born out of my obsession with one-pot meals that don’t sacrifice flavor for simplicity. There’s something incredibly comforting about creamy pasta and tender chicken, and when it’s all done in a single pan with minimal cleanup, it’s a winner in my book. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this one checks every box.

---

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo

It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers rich, satisfying flavor with little effort. You get the creaminess of a risotto without the constant stirring, the protein from pan-seared chicken, and the nutty depth from freshly grated Parmesan. It’s filling, flavorful, and ultra-cozy — a true weeknight hero.

---

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

I usually go with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts work just as well if you prefer a leaner option. Just be sure not to overcook the chicken so it stays tender and moist. You can even use leftover rotisserie chicken to speed things up even more.

---

Options for Substitutions

• Orzo: Swap with other small pasta like ditalini or even rice if you don’t have orzo on hand.
• Parmesan: Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can step in without missing a beat.
• Cream: Use half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a lighter or lactose-free version.
• Chicken: As mentioned, leftovers work great. You can also substitute with turkey or even shrimp.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley is classic, but basil, thyme, or even spinach can be stirred in at the end for extra green and flavor.

---

Ingredients for this Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: The star protein, bringing juiciness and hearty flavor.
• Orzo Pasta: Acts like rice but cooks faster, giving a creamy texture without being heavy.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the creamy sauce.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that balances the richness.
• Chicken Broth: Used to cook the orzo and infuse every bite with savory flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Creates that signature creamy texture that coats everything beautifully.
• Butter and Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: Brings color and freshness to finish the dish.
• Lemon Zest or Juice (optional): A hint of acidity brightens the whole dish.

---

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken until golden and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness). Remove the chicken and set aside.

---

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a bit more butter if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to brown it.

---

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Add the orzo to the pan and stir to coat in the garlicky butter. Let it toast for 1–2 minutes, which builds flavor and gives it a slightly nutty edge.

---

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer, lower the heat, and cook the orzo uncovered for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s tender and most of the broth is absorbed.

---

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

---

Step 6: Return the Chicken

Slice or cube the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Stir to combine and let everything warm through for 2–3 minutes. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce gets too thick.

---

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Lemon (Optional)

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish and add a touch of lemon zest or a squeeze of juice if you want to brighten the flavors. Serve warm and creamy straight from the skillet.

---

How Long to Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo

Prep Time:

The preparation takes about 10–15 minutes. That includes slicing the chicken (if not pre-cut), mincing garlic, grating Parmesan, and measuring out your ingredients. Having everything ready before you start cooking helps this dish come together seamlessly.

Cooking Time:

The actual cooking takes roughly 25 minutes. Searing the chicken takes around 10 minutes, while the orzo simmers for another 10, with a few minutes at the end to bring everything together and finish with cream and cheese. All in all, you’re looking at a complete meal ready in 35–40 minutes.

---

Tips for Perfect Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
• Don’t overcook the orzo — it should be tender but not mushy.
• Deglaze the pan well after searing the chicken to get all the flavor into the orzo.
• Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.
• Add the cream off heat to prevent curdling and ensure smoothness.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the pan: This steams the chicken instead of searing it, robbing you of that golden crust.
• Adding cheese too early: If the orzo is still very hot or the pan is over high heat, the cheese might clump.
• Using pre-shredded Parmesan: It doesn’t melt as smoothly and often contains anti-caking agents.
• Skipping the broth deglaze: You’ll miss out on rich, caramelized flavor.
• Not stirring the orzo: Orzo can stick to the bottom if left unattended, so give it an occasional stir.

---

What to Serve With Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo?

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy and buttery, perfect for scooping up every bit of sauce.

2. Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery greens with lemon vinaigrette help balance the richness of the dish.

3. Roasted Broccoli

Adds a roasted, earthy flavor and some green to your plate.

4. Sauteed Mushrooms

Earthy and savory, mushrooms complement the creamy, cheesy profile.

5. White Wine or Sparkling Water

Something crisp and refreshing to sip alongside this creamy meal.

---

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The orzo will soak up more sauce as it sits, so add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.

Freezing:

Not ideal due to the dairy, which can separate upon thawing. If needed, freeze without the cream and cheese, then stir those in fresh after reheating.

Reheating:

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a bit of added liquid to bring back the creamy consistency.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: ~620 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of orzo?

You can use small pasta shapes like ditalini, pearl couscous, or even rice in a pinch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, store the creamy part separate and combine before serving.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free orzo or rice for a similar result.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions stirred in at the end.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir it occasionally during cooking and make sure there’s enough liquid in the pan.

---

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is a go-to comfort meal that delivers elegance and ease all in one pan. With rich flavor from the Parmesan, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked orzo, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this creamy skillet meal is sure to satisfy every time.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: