Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that’s sure to please? Look no further than these 18 creamy chicken and orzo recipes! This classic comfort food combination is elevated to new heights with the addition of rich, velvety sauces and a medley of flavors. From Mediterranean-inspired dishes to spicy Cajun creations, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into our favorite creamy chicken and orzo recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, we’ve got a recipe to suit your taste. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the perfect combination of flavors and textures to make your mealtime shine!
Lemon Garlic Chicken and Orzo Bake
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic, all wrapped up in a creamy orzo bake. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s quick to prepare and devoured by the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat.
4. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked orzo, vegetable mixture, and chicken. Top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines chicken, orzo, and the bright flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked orzo pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the orzo, diced tomatoes, red bell pepper, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
5. Remove from heat, stir in feta cheese, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo
Elevate your mealtime with this mouthwatering combination of juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy orzo. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and impressive.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic over medium-high heat until cooked through.
3. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and basil to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the cooked orzo and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Feta Chicken Orzo Skillet
This flavorful skillet dish combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the nutritious goodness of spinach, all wrapped up in a comforting serving of chicken and orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in the crumbled feta cheese.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavors (garlic powder, red pepper flakes).
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Greek-Style Chicken and Orzo Soup
Greek-Style Chicken and Orzo Soup Recipe
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines the comfort of orzo pasta with the brightness of Greek spices.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup orzo pasta
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, water, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is cooked through.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot and stir to combine.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken with Orzo Pilaf
This recipe combines juicy chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce, served over a flavorful orzo pilaf. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and impressive.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the orzo pilaf:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together minced garlic, softened butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked orzo with the pilaf mixture and serve alongside garlic butter chicken.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken and Orzo Casserole
This hearty casserole is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring juicy chicken, tender orzo pasta, and a rich tomato basil sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked orzo, chicken mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the richness of pesto with the comfort of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in pesto and cooked orzo pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with roasted vegetables and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Orzo Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy chicken, creamy orzo, and melted cheese for a delightful main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, olive oil, salt, and pepper until cooked through.
4. Stir in orzo, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
5. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture.
6. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Orzo
A rich and satisfying one-pot dish that combines the flavors of sautéed mushrooms, chicken, and pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms, onion, and garlic in a little oil until tender.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked orzo and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Dill Chicken and Orzo Salad
Lemon Dill Chicken and Orzo Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad combines the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of dill with tender chicken and nutty orzo, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked orzo, sliced chicken, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Orzo Jambalaya
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this bold and flavorful dish! This one-pot wonder combines the zesty kick of Cajun seasoning with the heartiness of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add cumin, paprika, Cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in orzo pasta, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until orzo is tender.
6. Return chicken to pot and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken and Orzo
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory flavor of chicken, all wrapped up in a flavorful orzo bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss chicken with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped red peppers and cook for 5-7 minutes or until charred.
4. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked chicken, roasted red peppers, and cooked orzo in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Honey Mustard Chicken and Orzo Bowl
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional chicken and pasta, this recipe combines the flavors of honey and mustard with tender chicken and nutty orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add orzo pasta to skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken broth, honey, and Dijon mustard.
7. Add cooked chicken back into the bowl and toss to coat with sauce.
8. Serve over orzo pasta and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Orzo Bake
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Orzo Bake Recipe
A creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and chicken with the comforting warmth of orzo. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken with garlic over medium-high heat until cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Add cooked orzo, salt, and pepper; stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked chicken with the orzo mixture; stir to coat.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional parmesan cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken and Orzo Stew
A creamy and aromatic stew that combines the flavors of coconut milk, curry powder, and chicken with the nutty taste of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mixed veggies and cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the curry sauce. Simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
7. Combine cooked orzo pasta and curry chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Orzo Stuffed Zucchini
Savor the flavors of summer with this unique twist on traditional stuffed zucchini. Juicy chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and nutty orzo come together in a delightful harmony.
Ingredients:
• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup orzo pasta, cooked
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to create a cavity for filling.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked chicken, orzo pasta, BBQ sauce, and cheddar cheese.
4. Stuff each zucchini with the chicken mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Orzo Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze with tender chicken and nutty orzo for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add balsamic glaze, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked orzo to the skillet and stir to coat with the balsamic mixture.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the orzo and sauce.
7. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 18 creamy chicken and orzo recipes! From classic comfort food to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Try Lemon Garlic Chicken and Orzo Bake, One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo, or Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo. Or, go bold with Spicy Cajun Chicken and Orzo Jambalaya or Coconut Curry Chicken and Orzo Stew. Each recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s sure to please the whole family.
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