Name: One Pot Creamy Chicken Mushroom Orzo With Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 3 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

This One Pot Creamy Chicken Mushroom Orzo With Parmesan is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and orzo pasta, all cooked in one pot, it’s a quick and easy dinner that will satisfy everyone at the table. The rich, cheesy Parmesan adds an extra layer of flavor that brings everything together.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

8 oz mushrooms, sliced

1 cup orzo pasta

3 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.

I then add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, I remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, I add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Next, I stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook them for about 5 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.

I add the orzo pasta to the skillet and cook it for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.

Then, I pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. I cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Afterward, I add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

I return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything to combine. I season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finally, I garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Total time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Variations

I can easily customize this dish to suit different tastes or dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, I could swap out the chicken for tofu or more mushrooms. If I want a bit of a kick, adding some crushed red pepper flakes would bring in a nice bit of heat. I could also use different types of cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, if I’m looking for a different flavor. For a gluten-free version, I could swap out the orzo for a gluten-free pasta variety.

Storage/Reheating

This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. I just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When I want to reheat it, I can pop it in the microwave or heat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

How do I make sure the orzo doesn’t get too mushy?

I make sure to keep an eye on the orzo while it’s cooking. Once the liquid is absorbed, I take it off the heat to prevent it from overcooking. If I feel the orzo is still a bit too firm, I can always add a little extra broth and cook it a little longer.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, if I don’t have orzo on hand, I can easily swap in another small pasta like ditalini or mini penne. I just need to keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may require slight adjustments.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This recipe is definitely great for meal prep! I can make it a day or two in advance, and just store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to eat, I can reheat it and enjoy a quick, delicious meal.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, I can freeze this dish, but the creamy texture may change slightly after freezing. I recommend freezing it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, I can add a little extra cream or broth to bring it back to life.

How do I make it spicier?

If I like some heat, I can add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the mushrooms or mix in some hot sauce at the end. Another option is to add some diced jalapeños along with the onions and garlic for a fresh, spicy kick.

Conclusion

This One Pot Creamy Chicken Mushroom Orzo With Parmesan is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and comforting flavors. It’s quick, easy, and makes a satisfying meal for any night of the week. I love how simple it is to prepare, and it’s great for a cozy family dinner or even meal prepping for the week. Whether I’m looking for something to make in a hurry or I just want a dish that’s going to hit all the right notes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in my kitchen!