Craving a quick, mouth-watering meal that'll transport your taste buds to Italy in just 30 minutes? Look no further than this sensational Easy Chicken and Mushroom Orzo! This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, juicy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked orzo in a symphony of flavors that'll make weeknight dinners feel like gourmet experiences. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking for simplicity, or just someone who loves delicious food without hours of preparation, this recipe is your ultimate culinary shortcut to satisfaction.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, slicing mushrooms, and mincing garlic. Measure out all other ingredients to have them ready.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until mushrooms are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet and add orzo pasta. Stir to combine all ingredients and ensure orzo is evenly distributed.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Check that orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If needed, add a little more broth or water to achieve desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow remaining liquid to be absorbed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, serve hot, and enjoy your Easy Chicken and Mushroom Orzo.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use high-quality chicken broth and ensure your chicken is cut into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Don't rush the mushroom sautéing process - letting them caramelize adds depth to the dish's overall taste profile.
- Stir the orzo occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even liquid absorption.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or grated Parmesan cheese in the final minutes of cooking.
- Fresh parsley isn't just a garnish - it adds a bright, fresh note that elevates the entire dish's flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute orzo with cauliflower rice or a gluten-free pasta alternative.
- Leftover orzo can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheated with a little extra broth to restore moisture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
