Description
Garlic Herb Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Orzo is a one-pan meal that combines juicy, herb-seasoned chicken with a rich, creamy orzo pasta loaded with mushrooms. It’s hearty, elegant, and full of comforting flavor—perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp fresh or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil (for orzo)
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini, baby bella, or white button)
- 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for orzo)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, minced garlic, herbs, and olive oil. Let marinate for 15–30 minutes if time allows.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter or olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms and cook until golden and tender, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in broth. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
- Stir in cream and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return chicken to skillet, nestle into orzo, and heat through.
- Garnish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Add spinach or peas to orzo for more greens.
- Use Greek yogurt or non-dairy cream for a lighter version.
- Add smoked paprika or Italian seasoning for extra depth.
- Check chicken doneness with a thermometer (165°F internal temp).
- Reheat leftovers with a splash of broth or cream to maintain texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
