Creamy Chicken Alfredo Orzo For A Cozy Night In
This dish combines tender chicken with velvety Alfredo sauce, all nestled within fluffy orzo pasta, creating a meal that is both satisfying and indulgent.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 cup Orzo Pasta Rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates the creamy base of the Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter For sautéing the garlic and chicken.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Optional for garnish.
Instructions
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, allowing it to melt and coat the bottom of the pan.
- Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add 1 pound of diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Sauté the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until it is golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the orzo. In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
- Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine with the chicken and garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes.
- Gradually stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese has fully melted and created a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing everything together gently to coat the pasta with the creamy chicken Alfredo sauce.
- Allow the dish to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
- Enjoy your dish with a side salad or garlic bread for an extra touch of comfort!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.