Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make? Look no further than creamy chicken and orzo recipes! This classic combination of flavors is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special celebration. With the rich flavor of chicken paired with the creamy texture of orzo, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering and easy-to-make creamy chicken and orzo recipes that will take your meal game to the next level. From classic comfort food dishes to international-inspired flavors, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy home cook looking for a quick and easy solution or a culinary enthusiast seeking inspiration for a special occasion, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Let’s dive in and explore the world of creamy chicken and orzo recipes together!
Lemon Garlic Chicken and Orzo Skillet
A bright and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the tender juiciness of chicken with the zest of lemon and the earthy sweetness of garlic, all in a hearty serving of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken mixture.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo
A flavorful and comforting one-pot dish that combines the richness of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes or until al dente.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty one-pot dish, featuring tender chicken, creamy orzo, and a medley of aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed Mediterranean vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (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 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the vegetables, garlic, oregano, and paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and browned chicken back to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using feta cheese, crumble on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken with Orzo
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and chicken with a hearty serving of orzo pasta. Perfect for a 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 olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
4. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
6. Serve chicken breasts with cooked orzo and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Orzo Bake
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful Spicy Cajun Chicken and Orzo Bake, packed with spicy kick and nutty orzo goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 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
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour in chicken broth and top with cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Orzo Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of tender chicken, fresh herbs, and nutty orzo for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery, onions)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the mixed vegetables in a little olive oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
5. Stir in the chopped parsley, thyme, and basil into the soup.
6. Add cooked orzo to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Orzo Salad
This salad combines the creamy richness of pesto with the savory flavor of chicken, all on a bed of nutty orzo. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced chicken and stir to combine with garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in pesto and season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked orzo, chicken mixture, mixed greens, and cherry tomatoes in a bowl.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Orzo Casserole
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and orzo pasta with a creamy cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo pasta, chicken, broccoli mixture, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek-Style Chicken and Orzo with Olives
Greek-Style Chicken and Orzo with Olives: A flavorful and satisfying one-pot dish that combines the richness of chicken, orzo pasta, and olives with the brightness of lemon and oregano.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add chicken broth, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot over cooked orzo, with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Orzo with Mushrooms
Savor the rich flavors of garlic butter chicken paired with tender orzo and earthy mushrooms in this mouthwatering one-pot dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. If using wine, add it after 2 minutes of mushroom cooking.
5. Stir in orzo, reserved pasta water, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken and Orzo Stew
This hearty stew combines the flavors of tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil with a creamy orzo risotto, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With minimal prep time and simple cooking instructions, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cherry tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot over cooked orzo.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken with Creamy Orzo
Elevate your dinner game with this savory and satisfying dish that combines crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and creamy orzo. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup of orzo pasta
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each chicken breast with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
3. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, cook the wrapped chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the cream mixture and stir until well combined.
7. Serve the bacon-wrapped chicken with the creamy orzo and garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Dill Chicken and Orzo Bake
This recipe combines the zesty flavors of lemon, the freshness of dill, and the comfort of a creamy orzo bake, all in one satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula and spinach)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orzo, olive oil, garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the bowl and toss until coated with the orzo mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with mixed greens and feta cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken and Orzo
A flavorful and colorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
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 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper.
3. On a baking sheet, roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes or until charred and softened.
4. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Add roasted red bell peppers, cooked orzo pasta, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Orzo with Artichokes
This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender chicken, creamy orzo, and artichoke hearts come together in a rich and savory slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked orzo
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, orzo, chicken broth, artichoke hearts, onion, garlic, and thyme.
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, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken and Orzo Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines chicken, orzo pasta, and sautéed vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, and mushrooms)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in orzo pasta, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curry Coconut Chicken and Orzo
Curry Coconut Chicken and Orzo Recipe
This recipe combines the flavors of curry and coconut with chicken and orzo, creating a deliciously aromatic and creamy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the onions and garlic and cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the coconut milk and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Serve the chicken over the cooked orzo and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken and Orzo Skillet
Savor the flavors of smoky paprika and tender chicken in this easy one-pot skillet dinner. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the smoked paprika and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Orzo with Spinach and Parmesan
This creamy and comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With the combination of chicken, orzo, spinach, and parmesan, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked orzo, chicken, and spinach mixture in a large bowl. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion Chicken and Orzo Risotto
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this creamy, flavorful risotto dish featuring caramelized onions and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup Orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook Orzo according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, caramelize onions over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add cooked Orzo, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet with caramelized onions. Stir until combined.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the risotto and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 creamy chicken and orzo recipes! From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, this collection has something for everyone. Skillets, soups, salads, casseroles – we’ve got them all. Try Lemon Garlic Chicken and Orzo Skillet, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo, or One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo for a delicious start. These recipes are sure to become family favorites!
