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Creamy Mushroom Orzo with Pan-Seared Chicken

Creamy Mushroom Orzo with Pan-Seared Chicken for Cozy Nights

This Creamy Mushroom Orzo with Pan-Seared Chicken is a one-skillet comfort meal that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Substitute with chicken thighs for added flavor if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds smoky depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances savory flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Ensures richness in the dish.
  • Salt Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • Pepper Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Orzo Base
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For cooking.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter For cooking and browning the chicken and mushrooms.
  • 8 ounces Cremini or Baby Bella Mushrooms Provides umami and earthiness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Adds aromatic flavor; use fresh if possible.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Forms the creamy base.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Provides depth of flavor.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream Lends creaminess to the dish.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Use freshly grated for best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley For garnish.
  • Extra Parmesan Optional garnish for cheese lovers.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set the seasoned chicken aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown, then remove and let rest.
  3. Add another tablespoon of olive oil and butter to the same skillet. Sauté the sliced mushrooms for 6-8 minutes, until golden brown and tender.
  4. Once the mushrooms are cooked, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the orzo pasta, then add chicken broth, simmer covered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender.
  6. Reduce heat and stir in half-and-half and parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
  7. Slice the rested chicken and return it to the skillet. Warm everything together for a couple of minutes. Serve garnished with chopped parsley and extra parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Let the pan-seared chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.

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