Mushroom Chicken Orzo Recipe – American Special
Mushroom chicken orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and orzo pasta in a creamy, rich sauce. This one-pan meal is perfect for a satisfying dinner, combining the hearty elements of chicken and pasta with the earthy depth of mushrooms. The addition of fresh herbs and a touch of cream creates a deliciously smooth and aromatic sauce that binds the ingredients together. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, mushroom chicken orzo offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors that is both nourishing and indulgent.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time30 min
- Total Time40 min
Mushroom Chicken Orzo Recipe Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to make Mushroom Chicken Orzo:
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes, until mushrooms are browned and tender.
Cook the Orzo: Add orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil and vegetables.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well to combine.
If using, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm.
Recipe Notes:
For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms, or use a combination of mushrooms for added depth.
For a Healthier Option: Substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a lower-fat cream alternative.
This Mushroom Chicken Orzo is a comforting, creamy dish that brings together tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and pasta in a single pan, making it both delicious and convenient for weeknight dinners.
