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Creamy Chicken Orzo

American · Dinner · Easy

Creamy Chicken Orzo

Total
40 min
Prep
15 min
Serves
4
Calories
430
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Small pasta grains simmer with chicken and spinach in a lemony cream sauce that comes together in one skillet.

Stirring releases enough starch to thicken Creamy Chicken Orzo without flour. The chicken cooks first and returns at the end, keeping the bite-size pieces tender while the pasta absorbs broth.

Use a wide pan and keep the simmer gentle. Orzo sticks readily near the bottom, so sweep the spoon across the entire base rather than stirring only through the center.

CreamyZestyOne PanWeeknightNut-freeEgg-freeHigh-protein

Method

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat and cook the pieces for until browned and 165°F. Transfer to a plate.

  2. Stir the garlic into the skillet for . Add the orzo and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits.

  3. Simmer over medium-low heat for , stirring frequently, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

  4. Add the heavy cream, baby spinach and chicken with its juices. Stir for until the spinach wilts and everything is hot.

  5. Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Serve while the sauce is still loose.

Forkue tips

  • If the orzo tightens before it is tender, add hot water a few tablespoons at a time.

Storing and reheating

Store leftover creamy chicken orzo in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta absorbs sauce, so add water or broth and reheat gently, stirring until creamy again.

Kitchen gear

Deep skilletTop picks on AmazonInstant read thermometerTop picks on Amazon
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Nutrition per serving, estimated

430Calories
33gProtein
36gCarbs
17gFat

Image: AI-generated picture of the finished dish, made by Forkue. Yours will look like home cooking.

Creamy Chicken Orzo: FAQ

Can I use rice instead?

Rice needs a different liquid ratio and cooking time. Keep orzo for this short, stirred skillet method.

Can I use cooked chicken?

Yes. Skip the initial sear and fold diced cooked chicken in with the cream, heating it thoroughly before serving.

How do I store and reheat Creamy Chicken Orzo?

Store leftover creamy chicken orzo in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta absorbs sauce, so add water or broth and reheat gently, stirring until creamy again.

How long does Creamy Chicken Orzo take?

About 40 min in total: 15 min prep and 25 min cooking.

What do I need to make Creamy Chicken Orzo?

The key ingredients are chicken breasts, orzo, baby spinach, chicken broth, heavy cream and lemon juice, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Creamy Chicken Orzo?

If the orzo tightens before it is tender, add hot water a few tablespoons at a time.

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