Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo Recipe

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 50 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 180  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo is a comforting one-pan meal made with tender chicken, buttery garlic, and perfectly cooked orzo in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s an easy yet satisfying dinner that feels indulgent while staying simple and family-friendly—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients
    For the Chicken
  • 500 g boneless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
    • For the Orzo Base
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 5 cloves garlic (finely minced)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2.5 cups chicken stock (halal, no alcohol)
    • For the Creamy Sauce
  • 0.75 cup fresh cream or cooking cream
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.25 tsp chili flakes (optional)
    • For Finishing
  • 0.25 0 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
  • Extra butter for richness (optional)
Instructions
    Season the Chicken
  1. 1
    Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss well so every piece is evenly coated. Let it rest for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
    2. Sear the Chicken
  2. 2
    Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large deep pan over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden on the outside and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
    3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Base
  3. 3
    In the same pan, add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–40 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
    4. Toast the Orzo
  4. 4
    Add the orzo directly into the garlic butter. Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the pasta and helps it hold its texture.
    5. Cook the Orzo
  5. 5
    Pour in the chicken stock and stir well. Bring to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat. Let the orzo cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
    6. Create the Creamy Sauce
  6. 6
    Lower the heat and add fresh cream, milk, thyme, oregano, and chili flakes (if using). Stir gently until everything is well combined and the sauce starts to thicken.
    7. Add the Chicken Back
  7. 7
    Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir and let everything simmer together for 3–4 minutes so the flavors blend and the chicken fully cooks in the sauce.
    8. Finish and Rest
  8. 8
    Add grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Turn off the heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Note
  • You can replace chicken breast with boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
  • For a lighter version, use half cream and half milk.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on low heat with a splash of milk or stock to restore creaminess.
Keywords: creamy, one-pan, comfort food, easy dinner, family-friendly
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/creamy-garlic-butter-chicken-orzo-recipe/