Description
A heartwarming one-pot meal featuring tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add the dry orzo pasta and stir for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden. This enhances its nutty flavor.
- Pour in chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in cooked shredded chicken and heavy cream, letting it simmer for an additional 3–4 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and baby spinach, stirring until cheese melts and spinach wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired, then serve hot.
Notes
For a lighter option, consider substituting half and half for heavy cream. Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg