Garlic Herb Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Orzo

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Garlic Herb Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Orzo

Juicy, herb-seasoned chicken meets rich, creamy mushroom orzo in this one-pan wonder. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is flavorful, satisfying, and elegant with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mushroom Orzo:

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (white button, cremini, or shiitake)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.

2. Cook the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the chicken breasts for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature: 165°F / 75°C).
  • Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms

  • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

4. Cook the Orzo

  • Add the orzo to the skillet and stir to coat in the butter and mushroom flavors.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  • Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

5. Make It Creamy

  • Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Stir until smooth and creamy.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Combine and Finish

  • Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet with the creamy mushroom orzo.
  • Let everything heat together for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

7. Serve

  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Chicken Options: Swap breasts for thighs for extra juiciness.
  • Mushroom Varieties: Try cremini or shiitake for a richer flavor.
  • Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup, more flavor.
  • Customizable: Change up the herbs, mushrooms, or add spinach or peas.
  • Satisfying: A hearty, creamy dish that feels restaurant-worthy.

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