Name: Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is one of those comforting, one-pan meals I turn to when I want something rich, filling, and fuss-free. Tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked orzo, and a velvety Parmesan sauce all come together in just about 30 minutes. It’s hearty, cheesy, and guaranteed to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s all made in one skillet, which means less cleanup—always a win in my kitchen. The orzo absorbs the flavor of the chicken broth while cooking, and the Parmesan adds a creamy, cheesy finish that makes every bite irresistible. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and feels like a restaurant-quality dish made right at home. Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Then I season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper and cook it for 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Once done, I remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
I pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
Once boiling, I stir in the orzo and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
I reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan, mixing until everything is creamy and well combined.
I return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together until heated through.
I finish by garnishing with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. From prep to plate, it takes about 30 minutes—perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special without taking all night.

Variations

I sometimes add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
For a bit of a kick, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
When I want to make it lighter, I substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Swapping the chicken for shrimp or mushrooms gives it a whole new twist.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up, since orzo tends to absorb more liquid as it sits. I reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes, I often use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker version—just add it when the orzo is nearly done cooking.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Absolutely. I’ve used half-and-half or even whole milk with a little butter in a pinch. It’s slightly less rich but still delicious.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Short pastas like small shells or ditalini work, but orzo cooks quickly and gives a creamy texture I really enjoy in this dish.

Does this freeze well?

I don’t recommend freezing it since the cream sauce may separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

How can I make it more flavorful?

I sometimes add a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic or throw in a handful of fresh herbs like thyme or basil to boost the flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo is the kind of dish I keep in regular rotation. It’s cozy, indulgent, and easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to serve to guests. With simple ingredients and a comforting finish, it’s a meal that always satisfies.