Garlic Herb Chicken and Mushroom Orzo

• 8 oz orzo
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Steps

1. 1 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through.
2. 2 Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. 3 Add minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. 4 Stir in orzo and toast for a couple of minutes. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. 5 Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 8 minutes until orzo is almost tender.
6. 6 Stir in heavy cream and butter until well combined and slightly thickened.
7. 7 Return the chicken to the skillet along with fresh parsley and thyme. Gently toss to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.
8. 8 Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese.

Equipment

• Large skillet with lid
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Variations

• Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
• Use turkey instead of chicken for a leaner option.

Substitutions

• Use vegetable broth and omit chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Substitute orzo with another short pasta like penne or farfalle.

Pairings

• A glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce.
• Serve with a side of roasted asparagus.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
• Feel free to add more herbs if you love a herby kick!

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of milk or cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread.

FAQ