Are you looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further! Today, we’re sharing 18 mouth-watering chicken breast and orzo recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort food dishes to international-inspired meals, these creamy chicken and orzo combinations will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of chicken breast and orzo, exploring a variety of flavors and techniques to help you create delicious meals that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick weeknight dinners or a foodie seeking new inspiration, these recipes have something for everyone.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast with Orzo
Brighten up your dinner routine with this zesty and aromatic dish, featuring tender chicken breast smothered in a tangy lemon garlic sauce, served alongside nutty orzo.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup orzo
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Serve chicken breast with orzo and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, creamy sauce, and tender chicken with the comforting warmth of orzo pasta. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat with the creamy tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve chicken over cooked orzo pasta.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Breast and Orzo
One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Breast and Orzo
A flavorful and nutritious one-pan dish that combines the tender chicken breast with the comforting orzo pasta, all infused with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Instructions:
- Precise the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add the olives, artichoke hearts, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Place the chicken breast on top of the pasta mixture. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken with Orzo
A flavorful and nutritious main dish that combines the richness of feta cheese, the earthiness of spinach, and the comfort of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Cut a horizontal slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
7. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken Breast and Orzo Bake
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Pesto Chicken Breast and Orzo Bake recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and chicken breasts until coated evenly.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the chicken is cooking, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and mixed cherry tomatoes.
7. After the chicken has finished baking, place it on top of the orzo mixture and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Orzo Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this bold and flavorful skillet dish, featuring spicy Cajun chicken, nutty orzo, and a hint of cumin.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in Cajun seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Add orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with vegetables and spices.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with orzo mixture.
8. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast with Orzo
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, featuring tender chicken breast smothered in a rich balsamic glaze, served atop a bed of creamy orzo.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook orzo according to package instructions using vegetable broth instead of water.
7. Serve chicken breasts atop orzo, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Orzo Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Orzo Casserole is a flavorful combination of chicken, broccoli, and pasta in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, broccoli, onion, and garlic in olive oil until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cream of chicken soup and bring to a simmer.
5. Combine the cooked orzo, chicken mixture, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek-Style Chicken Breast and Orzo Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the juiciness of chicken breast with the nutty goodness of orzo, all tied together with a zesty Greek-inspired dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat with the marinade.
4. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Grill or bake the chicken breasts for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked orzo, grilled chicken, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Drizzle with additional lemon juice if desired.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Orzo
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy, savory, and satisfying dish that combines the richness of garlic butter chicken with the nutty goodness of parmesan orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brush both sides with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Bake the chicken for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large skillet, combine Parmesan cheese and chicken broth. Stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
7. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the cheesy sauce.
8. Serve the garlic butter chicken atop the parmesan orzo.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Chicken Breast with Orzo
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic chicken breast dish, infused with the earthy taste of mushrooms and the warmth of thyme. Serve it alongside a comforting orzo side dish for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 cup orzo
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. Remove chicken from skillet; set aside. Add sliced mushrooms, garlic, and thyme to the same skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to caramelize.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Transfer chicken back to the skillet; spoon mushroom mixture over each breast.
6. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Serve with the Mushroom and Thyme Chicken Breast.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken and Orzo Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the classic flavors of tomato, basil, and chicken with the comforting warmth of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and basil. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and orzo pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is al dente.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Orzo Pilaf
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful combination of grilled chicken and orzo pilaf, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the orzo pilaf:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and basil.
7. Toss to combine and season with salt to taste.
8. Serve the grilled chicken atop the orzo pilaf.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers with Orzo
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the creamy comfort of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 8 ounces orzo pasta, cooked and cooled
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and orzo pasta. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped green onions over the peppers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary White Wine Chicken and Orzo
Rosemary White Wine Chicken and Orzo Recipe
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish that combines the simplicity of orzo with the richness of rosemary-infused white wine chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add rosemary, white wine, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Cook orzo according to package instructions, adding it to the skillet for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breast with Creamy Orzo
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the tender juiciness of chicken breast, all wrapped up in a creamy orzo dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 cup of orzo pasta
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each chicken breast with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
3. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Reduce the heat to medium and add the olive oil, then whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and toss with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts with the creamy orzo dish, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Harissa Spiced Chicken and Orzo Bowl
This recipe combines the flavors of North Africa with the comfort of a warm bowl, featuring spiced chicken, orzo, and roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp harissa powder (or more to taste)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 1 cup roasted vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and harissa powder.
3. Add chicken and toss to coat; season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While chicken is cooking, sauté onion and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat until softened.
6. Combine cooked orzo pasta, roasted vegetables, and chicken in the skillet; stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caprese Chicken Breast with Orzo Salad
A refreshing summer twist on traditional chicken parmesan, this recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a light and satisfying orzo salad.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Toss with mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
5. Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese, a few cherry tomatoes, and some chopped basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Elevate your meals with these 18 mouthwatering recipes that combine creamy chicken breast and orzo. From classic flavors to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Try Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast with Orzo, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo, or One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Breast and Orzo for a taste of the Mediterranean. Other options include Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken with Orzo, Pesto Chicken Breast and Orzo Bake, and many more. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and bright or rich and indulgent, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
