Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! Chicken breast and orzo is a match made in heaven, and we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes to prove it. From creamy bakes to zesty salads, these chicken breast and orzo dishes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, easy, and delicious.
Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors like lemon and garlic or international inspirations like Mediterranean and Greek, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to please. And the best part? Each dish is packed with protein, flavor, and fun – making it perfect for families, date nights, or even just a quick lunch.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting 20 mouth-watering chicken breast and orzo recipes that are sure to become new favorites. So grab your apron, get cooking, and let’s get started!
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast with Orzo
This refreshing and flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender chicken breast is marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic mixture, then cooked to perfection and served over a bed of nutty orzo.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Remove chicken from the marinade and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve chicken over orzo with chicken broth spooned on top. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo Bake
This comforting casserole combines juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and nutty orzo pasta, all topped with a crispy parmesan crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken in butter until cooked through. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken mixture, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Breast and Orzo Salad
Mediterranean Chicken Breast and Orzo Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the tender juiciness of chicken breast, all on a bed of creamy orzo pasta. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add on top of the salad.
7. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad.
8. Toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Breast and Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, featuring chicken breast, orzo, and sun-dried tomatoes. This one-pan wonder is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 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 using water or chicken broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Serve chicken on top of cooked orzo and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast with Orzo
This recipe combines the flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and orzo to create a deliciously savory chicken breast. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup cooked orzo
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, orzo, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture and secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Breast and Orzo Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the spices of Cajun cuisine with the comfort of a hearty skillet meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the orzo pasta, cumin, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 6-8 minutes.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast with Orzo and Mushrooms
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful combination of tender chicken, nutty orzo, and earthy mushrooms, all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 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; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Place chicken breasts in the skillet with mushrooms; brush with balsamic glaze.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve chicken with cooked orzo and sautéed mushrooms.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Chicken Breast and Orzo with Olives
Savor the bold flavors of Greece with this simple yet satisfying dish, featuring juicy chicken breast, creamy orzo, and salty olives. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and top with olives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve with cooked orzo and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Breast and Orzo with Asparagus
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter chicken breast with the simplicity of orzo and the crunch of asparagus, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each breast.
4. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
5. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
6. Place the chicken breasts in the oven and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve the garlic butter chicken breast with orzo and roasted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Breast and Orzo Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender chicken breast, creamy tomatoes, and the brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken breast in olive oil until cooked through.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and orzo pasta.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until orzo is tender.
6. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken Breast and Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
This Italian-inspired dish combines flavorful pesto chicken breast with creamy orzo and a colorful medley of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast mixed vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
6. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
7. Grill or bake chicken breast for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Serve chicken with roasted vegetables and orzo.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Breast and Orzo Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the tenderness of chicken breast with the creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in a deliciously satisfying package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas and carrots)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheese and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer orzo pasta, chicken mixture, and cheese sauce. Repeat layers one more time.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Breast with Orzo and Artichokes
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and refreshing dish, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon herb mixture.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
6. Toss artichoke hearts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve chicken breasts atop orzo with roasted artichokes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Breast and Orzo Stew
Savor the tender flavors of this comforting slow cooker stew, perfect for a cozy evening or busy weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Add the orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper on top of the chicken.
3. Pour in the chicken broth.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Chicken Breast and Orzo with Lemon-Dill Sauce
Brighten up your weeknight dinner routine with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the comfort of chicken breast with the creamy, tangy goodness of lemon-dill sauce, served alongside a bed of fluffy orzo.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, add lemon juice, garlic, and chopped dill. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve chicken breasts over orzo with spoonfuls of the lemon-dill sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Breast and Orzo
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Breast and Orzo: A flavorful and healthy dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory taste of chicken breast, served atop a bed of nutty orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Add the chopped red peppers to the bowl and toss to coat with the mixture.
4. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
5. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions using 2 cups of boiling water.
7. Toss the roasted red peppers with the cooked orzo pasta.
Cooking Time:
– Chicken: 20-25 minutes
– Orzo: 8-10 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Chicken Breast and Orzo Stir-Fry with Soy-Ginger Glaze
This recipe combines the richness of chicken breast, nutty orzo, and a sweet and savory soy-ginger glaze for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from pan and set aside. Add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, mixed vegetables, and cooked orzo to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
5. Pour glaze over chicken and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Rosemary Chicken Breast with Orzo and Peas
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the flavors of garlic, rosemary, and lemon with tender chicken breast, nutty orzo, and sweet peas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic-rosemary mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
6. Steam peas until tender.
7. Serve chicken breast with orzo, peas, and a squeeze of lemon juice (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Breast and Orzo Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your mealtime with this spicy and satisfying recipe, featuring tender chicken breast, tangy buffalo sauce, and a flavorful orzo filling wrapped in vibrant bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, heat buffalo wing sauce over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until cooked through. Let cool.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked orzo, shredded cheese, and diced chicken breast.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake stuffed peppers for 25-30 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Breast and Orzo with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of juicy chicken breast, nutty orzo, and a rich sun-dried tomato sauce. A perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
5. In the same skillet, add sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked orzo, sliced chicken, and creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a delicious culinary adventure with these 20 mouthwatering chicken breast and orzo recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic flavors to international twists, each dish features tender and juicy chicken paired with creamy orzo pasta. Try Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast with Orzo, Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo Bake, or Mediterranean Chicken Breast and Orzo Salad – there’s something for every taste and preference. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a quick and easy meal, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Leave a Reply