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Golden and Creamy Chicken Orzo Bake Ready to Serve

Chicken Orzo Bake

Emily
Discover the best chicken orzo bake recipe! This creamy, comforting one-pan dish is perfect for dinner, combining tender chicken and savory orzo in a rich sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Tender and juicy, thighs add extra richness, while breasts keep it lean.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds subtle warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika – Brings a touch of smokiness.
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Adds depth and aroma.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing the chicken and locking in flavor.

For the Orzo Bake:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta – A small rice-shaped pasta that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Helps toast the orzo for extra nuttiness.
  • 3 cloves garlic minced – Brings a savory depth.
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional – Adds a mild kick.
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped – Infuses a sweet and tangy contrast.
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the dish moist and flavorful.
  • ½ cup heavy cream – Creates a smooth velvety texture.
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for extra richness.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach – Adds color nutrients, and a slight earthiness.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens up the dish with a fresh citrus touch.

For Garnish (Optional but Recommended):

  • Extra grated Parmesan – For a final cheesy boost.
  • Fresh parsley chopped – Adds freshness and color.
  • Lemon zest – Intensifies the citrusy notes.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and a golden finish.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
  • Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
  • Heat oil in oven-safe skillet.
  • Sear chicken 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside; it doesn’t need to be cooked through.

Step 3: build the base

  • Now, let’s build the base by toasting the orzo. Melt butter in the same skillet you used for the chicken.
  • Add the orzo pasta and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted and fragrant.
  • Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds.
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes; cook 1 minute.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

  • It’s time to simmer the sauce. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to add extra flavor.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined.
  • Let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the orzo to absorb some of the liquid.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

  • Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan, pressing it gently into the orzo mixture.
  • Cover with a lid (or foil) and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
  • Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the orzo is tender.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Finish

  • Remove the skillet from the oven and uncover.
  • Stir in the fresh spinach and lemon juice, letting the heat wilt the spinach.
  • Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving to give the flavors time to come together.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  • Sprinkle with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and lemon zest for a final burst of flavor.
  • Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, comforting chicken orzo bake!

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 550
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Vitamin A: 15% DV
  • Vitamin C: 6% DV
  • Calcium: 20% DV
  • Iron: 10% DV
Keyword baked chicken, Chicken orzo bake, creamy chicken orzo, one-pan meal