Crispy Parmesan Chicken Thighs over Caesar Orzo

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (extra)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2 In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt.
3. 3 Dredge chicken thighs in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. 4 Place chicken on the prepared baking sheet, skin side up. Bake for 25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. 5 While chicken bakes, cook orzo in boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain.
6. 6 Toss cooked orzo with Caesar dressing until well coated.
7. 7 In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese with a bit of flour to create a coating. Sprinkle over hot chicken straight from the oven.
8. 8 To serve, place a bed of orzo on each plate, top with chopped romaine lettuce, a chicken thigh, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese.

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parmesan cheese grater
• Medium saucepan

Variations

• Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Add roasted vegetables to the dish for extra nutrients.

Substitutions

• Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Substitute Caesar dressing with a vegan alternative for a vegan version.

Pairings

• Serve with a chilled glass of Chardonnay.
• A side of roasted asparagus or green beans complements the dish nicely.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra crispiness, refrigerate the dredged chicken for 30 minutes before baking.
• Ensure your oven is preheated properly for optimal results.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven to maintain crispiness.

Freezing: Does not freeze well due to texture changes in the chicken skin and orzo.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

FAQ