Chicken And Orzo Recipes

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 04, 2025

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Chicken and Orzo Recipes: A Flavorful Fusion

Orzo pasta, with its small, rice-shaped form, offers a delightful canvas for a myriad of flavors. When paired with chicken, it creates a versatile and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a more elegant gathering. This guide explores various chicken and orzo recipes, catering to different tastes and skill levels.

Simple Chicken and Orzo: A Beginner's Delight

This recipe is perfect for those new to cooking or looking for a quick and easy meal. The simplicity allows the natural flavors of chicken and orzo to shine.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Brown the chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add orzo and broth: Stir in the orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Stir in parsley: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
5. Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo: A Burst of Freshness

This recipe elevates the simple chicken and orzo with bright, citrusy flavors and aromatic herbs.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 shallot, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan. Sauté the shallot until softened.
2. Brown the chicken: Add chicken and cook until lightly browned.
3. Add orzo, broth, and lemon juice: Stir in orzo, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
4. Add herbs and lemon zest: Stir in fresh herbs and lemon zest during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Creamy Tomato Chicken and Orzo: A Comforting Classic

This recipe provides a richer, creamier take on the classic chicken and orzo, perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the garlic: Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
2. Brown the chicken: Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add tomatoes and oregano: Stir in crushed tomatoes and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add orzo: Add orzo and enough chicken broth to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until orzo is cooked.
5. Stir in cream and cheese: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper and serve hot.

These are just a few variations on the theme of chicken and orzo. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, cheeses, herbs, and spices to create your own unique and delicious dish! Remember to adjust seasoning to your preference. Enjoy!