Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight that combines the creaminess of orzo with the savory flavor of chicken. In this article, we’re counting down our top 20 creamy orzo recipes featuring chicken as the star of the show. From classic comfort food to international twists, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your dinner guests.
From hearty one-pot casserole to light and refreshing salads, we’ve got a recipe for every taste and occasion. Say goodbye to boring weeknight meals and hello to a world of flavors that will leave you wanting more. So, let’s dive into our top 20 creamy orzo recipes with chicken delights and discover the perfect dish for your next dinner party or cozy night in.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo
Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo recipe, featuring juicy chicken, flavorful garlic, and a hint of lemon. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight supper or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned and cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and lemon juice; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Combine cooked orzo, chicken, and lemon-garlic mixture in a serving dish.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
A flavorful and comforting one-pot dish that combines the richness of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked orzo, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the browned chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering. This easy-to-make recipe combines the flavors of chicken, orzo, and vegetables in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the orzo pasta, frozen vegetables, and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese; return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken with Orzo
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and filling dish that combines the richness of spinach, feta, and orzo with tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each to create a pocket. Stuff each with the spinach-feta mixture.
4. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and top with cooked orzo pasta.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the warmth of chicken, all on a bed of nutty orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced red onion and minced garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss to combine and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Orzo Bake
This creamy, one-dish wonder combines the richness of pesto with the comfort of chicken and orzo. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked orzo, pesto sauce, and chicken pieces. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Orzo Soup
This hearty soup is a comforting blend of tender chicken, nutty orzo, and vegetables, all slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you want a warm, satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, orzo, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and oregano.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Orzo
A flavorful and comforting one-pot dish that combines the richness of chicken, steamed broccoli, and a savory orzo base, all wrapped up with a creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese and chicken broth until smooth. Return cooked chicken to the pan and combine with orzo.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Lemon Chicken Orzo
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing Greek-inspired dish, featuring tender chicken, zesty lemon, and hearty orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed Greek olives, pitted
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and olives. Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve chicken mixture over cooked orzo, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken with Orzo Pilaf
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter chicken with the comforting warmth of orzo pilaf, all in one delicious pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add orzo pasta, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Pea Chicken Orzo Risotto
A creamy and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the richness of bacon, the sweetness of peas, and the tenderness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 6 oz orzo pasta
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and chicken to the pot. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
4. Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables and chicken.
5. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly, until the liquid is fully absorbed.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cooked bacon.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Orzo Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful one-pot meal that combines the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the comfort of creamy orzo and juicy chicken. This Spicy Cajun Chicken Orzo Skillet is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add orzo pasta and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-12 minutes or until orzo is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Orzo Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew perfect for a cozy evening meal. This recipe combines the warmth of chicken, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the brightness of basil with the comforting creaminess of orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (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.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to coat with tomato mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot over cooked orzo pasta with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Chicken Orzo
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish, this Mushroom and Thyme Chicken Orzo is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic to the skillet; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Orzo Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a warm, cheesy pasta dish. Chicken parmesan, orzo, and melted mozzarella come together in a deliciously easy meal that’s perfect for family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, sauté chicken in marinara sauce until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken mixture, and beaten egg.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Orzo
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Orzo: A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines tender chicken, nutty orzo, and sweet roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add roasted red peppers, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
6. Add cooked orzo to the skillet and toss with chicken and vegetable mixture.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors are well combined and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Herbed Lemon Chicken with Orzo
Brighten up a weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic dish. Tender chicken breasts are infused with the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and the comfort of creamy orzo.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
6. Serve chicken with orzo and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Orzo Mac and Cheese
This creamy pasta dish combines the comforting warmth of macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken. With a kick of heat from hot sauce and a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
– 1/2 cup cooked, diced chicken (such as rotisserie chicken)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine chicken broth, milk, butter, buffalo wing sauce, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add shredded cheddar and stir until melted.
4. Combine cooked orzo, diced chicken, and blue cheese in the saucepan. Stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional blue cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Asparagus Orzo Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stir-fries, featuring tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and nutty orzo. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is easy to prepare and packs plenty of punch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and add asparagus. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Combine with cooked orzo and chicken; toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Chicken Orzo
This comforting and flavorful dish combines tender chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and nutty orzo pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine the cooked chicken, caramelized onions, and orzo pasta in a large bowl.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of creamy orzo recipes with chicken! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes combines the comfort of pasta with the protein-packed flavor of chicken. From classic casserole recipes to Mediterranean-inspired salads and soups, there’s something for every taste bud. Try Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo, or One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Casserole – just a few of the many mouth-watering options in this article.
