Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo Recipe

Delve into the world of culinary delights with this voluptuous skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini. A savory mix of tender chicken, rich melted cheese, and wholesome zucchini, this dish is cooked to perfection in one pan, saving you time and clean-up. The combination of orzo, a short-cut pasta, adds a delightful texture and absorbs the flavors perfectly.

Photos of Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini Recipe

This recipe requires a few ingredients that you may not readily have at home, such as orzo and fontina cheese. Orzo is a type of short-cut pasta, shaped like a large grain of rice. It is commonly found in the pasta aisle in most grocery stores. Fontina cheese, on the other hand, is an Italian cow's milk cheese with a mild and slightly nutty flavor, often found in the gourmet cheese section.

Incorporating the Essential Ingredients for the Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini

Olive oil: It is used to fry the chicken and sauté the vegetables, providing a healthy source of fat.

Chicken breasts: These are the main source of protein in our dish.

Yellow onion: It brings a delightful aroma and sweet flavor to the dish.

Dried orzo: This rice-shaped pasta plumps up and absorbs the flavors as it cooks.

Zucchini: This adds a fresh, light touch and extra health benefits to the dish.

Fresh thyme: Gives a subtle, slightly minty flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Salt: Along with enhancing flavor, it also helps to balance and bring out the other flavors in the dish.

Chicken broth: It is used to cook the orzo, adding a layer of rich, savory flavor.

Half and half: This cream adds a luscious, velvety texture to the orzo.

Cheddar: A popular cheese that adds a tangy and creamy flavor.

Fontina: This mild Italian cheese melts beautifully, contributing to the dish's creaminess.

One reader, Ashby Lorenz says:

This skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the dish is so comforting. The orzo and zucchini complement the juicy chicken perfectly. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, delicious meal.

Ashby Lorenz

Cooking Techniques Required for Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini

How to sear the chicken: Searing the chicken over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes on each side will help to brown the outside while keeping the inside just barely pink. This step is important to lock in the juices and flavor.

How to simmer the orzo: Simmering the orzo gently for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, will allow it to become almost tender while absorbing the flavors of the other ingredients.

How to melt the cheese: Sprinkling in the cheeses in batches and stirring after each addition will ensure that the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the orzo mixture, creating a creamy and flavorful dish.

How To Make Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini

Enjoy a juicy skillet chicken, tender veggie and pasta, and loads of cheese all in one plate with this flavorful and filling one-pan dinner recipe.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspolive oil,as needed
2lbschicken breasts,(4 to 6 pcs), boneless, skinless
1cupyellow onion,chopped
1½cupsdried orzo
2cupszucchini,(2 medium), cubed
2tspfresh thyme,minced
½tspsalt
3cupschicken broth
1cuphalf and half,or whole milk
½cupcheddar,grated
½cupfontina,or Havarti, grated

Instructions

In a very large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
Sear the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side or until browned but not cooked through. (It should still be just barely pink in the center if cutting into one of the pieces to test.) Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil if needed (if there is still about a tablespoon of oil left in the pan, skip it).
Add the onions and sauté for 2 minutes until they start to become tender. Add the orzo and stir for another minute to coat it with the oil and onions.
Stir in the zucchini, thyme, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add the chicken broth, raise the heat to medium-high and allow the liquid to come to a simmer for about 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Stir in the half-and-half and bring it to a simmer for about 2 minutes.
Cover the pan, lower the heat and simmer gently for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is almost tender. Much of the liquid will be absorbed, but it should still be fairly runny at this point.
Sprinkle in the cheeses in batches, stirring after each addition until the cheese is all melted. Taste the orzo after all the cheese is added and add additional salt if needed.
Tuck the browned chicken into the top of the orzo mixture, and drizzle over top any juices that accumulated from the chicken as it rested.
Cover the pan and simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (165 degrees F with a digital thermometer) and the orzo and zucchini are tender.
The orzo mixture will have thickened slightly but should still be quite saucy, like a very loose risotto.
Serve the chicken and orzo hot from the pan.

Nutrition

Calories: 598.27kcal
Fat: 32.27g
Saturated Fat: 12.28g
Trans Fat: 0.29g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.03g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.40g
Carbohydrates: 29.73g
Fiber: 1.74g
Sugar: 6.70g
Protein: 45.43g
Cholesterol: 139.27mg
Sodium: 642.08mg
Calcium: 216.84mg
Potassium: 733.53mg
Iron: 2.07mg
Vitamin A: 139.02µg
Vitamin C: 10.40mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini

When searing the chicken, ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the meat. A properly heated skillet will give your chicken a nice, golden-brown sear that adds depth of flavor to the dish. If the skillet is not hot enough, the chicken may start to steam instead of sear, resulting in a less flavorful outcome. Remember to let the chicken rest after searing, this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Cheesy Chicken Orzo Skillet

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single skillet or pot, minimizing cleanup time.

Multi-task: While the chicken is searing, prep the vegetables to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Organized workspace: Keep your workspace tidy and organized to avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.

Efficient chopping: Master the art of efficient chopping to speed up the prep work for this recipe.

Substitute Ingredients For Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions can be used as a substitute for yellow onions, providing a slightly milder flavor.
dried orzo - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a gluten-free alternative to orzo, adding a nutty flavor and a boost of protein to the dish.
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash can be used as a substitute for zucchini, offering a similar texture and mild flavor.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used in place of fresh thyme, but in smaller quantities, as it has a more concentrated flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a slightly different flavor profile.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, adding a different depth of flavor to the dish.
half and half - Substitute with whole milk and butter: Whole milk combined with melted butter can be used as a substitute for half and half, providing a similar richness.
cheddar - Substitute with gouda: Gouda cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar, offering a creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor.
fontina - Substitute with gruyère: Gruyère cheese can be used as a substitute for fontina, providing a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.

Best Way to Present Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini

Elevate the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into elegant medallions and arrange them on the orzo with precision and finesse.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped thyme and parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Drizzle with olive oil: Finish the dish with a delicate drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sophistication.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt: A light sprinkle of Maldon sea salt on the chicken and orzo will provide a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.
Serve on elegant dinnerware: Present the skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini on beautiful, handcrafted plates to create a visually stunning presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Cheesy Chicken Orzo Skillet

Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It typically has low sides and a long handle, making it perfect for cooking the chicken and orzo dish.
Tongs: Tongs are essential for flipping and handling the chicken as it cooks in the skillet. They provide a secure grip and help prevent any splattering.
Cutting board: A cutting board is necessary for chopping the onions and zucchini, providing a stable surface for safe and efficient food preparation.
Chef's knife: A sharp chef's knife is essential for cutting and dicing the onions and zucchini with precision and ease.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the orzo, chicken broth, and cheeses, so using measuring cups and spoons ensures the right balance of flavors and textures.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the orzo and zucchini mixture, as it won't scratch the skillet and allows for gentle, even stirring.
Digital thermometer: A digital thermometer is essential for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Lid or cover: A lid or cover for the skillet is necessary to simmer the orzo and chicken, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini:

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The orzo mixture may thicken up quite a bit when chilled, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or half-and-half when reheating to loosen it back up.
To freeze, transfer the cooled chicken and orzo mixture to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Squeeze out any excess air if using a bag, then seal tightly. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen chicken and orzo overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a bit of chicken broth or half-and-half to help loosen up the mixture as it reheats.
If you want to freeze just the orzo mixture on its own, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag once cooled, then freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed above. You can serve the thawed and reheated orzo with freshly cooked chicken or other proteins of your choice.

How to Reheat Leftover Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini

To reheat leftover skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini, start by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture and prevent the orzo from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the dish is heated through and steaming.
For a crispier texture, reheat the chicken and orzo mixture in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help loosen the orzo and create a creamy texture. Stir frequently and cook until the dish is heated through and the chicken is warmed, about 5-7 minutes. If the mixture appears dry, add more liquid as needed.
To reheat larger portions or maintain the original texture, use an oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini to an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of cooking to help crisp up the top layer.
For a quick and easy lunch, transform your leftovers into a chicken and orzo soup. In a pot, combine the leftover skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini with additional chicken broth. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and the flavors have melded, about 10-15 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy your repurposed meal.

Interesting Fact About Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini

The recipe is a delicious and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the flavors of tender chicken, cheesy orzo, and fresh zucchini. It's a great way to incorporate protein, vegetables, and whole grains into one dish, making it a well-balanced and satisfying meal. This recipe is also versatile and can be customized with different types of cheese or additional vegetables to suit your preferences. It's a convenient and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in this skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini recipe!

Is Making Cheesy Chicken Orzo Skillet at Home Cost-Effective?

The skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of chicken and zucchini makes it a relatively affordable option. The combination of cheese and orzo may slightly increase the cost, but the dish yields a substantial amount, making it suitable for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is This Cheesy Chicken Skillet Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes lean protein from the chicken breasts and nutrients from the zucchini, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. The use of fresh thyme adds flavor without additional calories or sodium. However, the recipe also contains a significant amount of saturated fat and sodium from the cheeses and chicken broth, which could be a concern for those with cardiovascular issues or high blood pressure. The orzo, being a refined carbohydrate, may also contribute to a higher glycemic load.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for lower-fat varieties to decrease the saturated fat content
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the dish's salt content
Incorporate additional vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrient density
Substitute whole wheat orzo for regular orzo to add more complex carbohydrates and fiber
Use a combination of milk and Greek yogurt instead of half-and-half to reduce the fat content while maintaining a creamy texture
Experiment with different herbs and spices, like garlic or red pepper flakes, to enhance flavor without relying on salt

Editor's Opinion on Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini Recipe

The skillet chicken with cheesy orzo and zucchini recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The seared chicken adds a savory element, while the creamy orzo and zucchini provide a comforting and satisfying base. The addition of cheddar and fontina cheese creates a rich and indulgent sauce that ties the dish together beautifully. The recipe's use of fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal note, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and well-balanced meal that is sure to impress both family and guests.

Enhance Your Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a sticky honey glaze, perfect for balancing out the savory flavors of the skillet chicken and cheesy orzo.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: A colorful and flavorful mix of grilled vegetables marinated in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, adding a burst of freshness to the meal.

Mushroom Risotto: Creamy and rich risotto infused with earthy mushrooms, providing a luxurious and indulgent side to complement the skillet chicken and cheesy orzo.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Cheesy Chicken Orzo Skillet

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushroom Risotto: This creamy and flavorful risotto is made with garlic, parmesan, and mushrooms for a comforting and satisfying dish.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: This sweet and tangy glazed salmon is the perfect combination of flavors, with a hint of honey and mustard to elevate the dish.

Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Salad: This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the saltiness of prosciutto for a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Serve with This Cheesy Chicken Orzo Skillet

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: For a delicious and elegant appetizer, try savory stuffed mushrooms. These bite-sized treats are filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. They're the perfect way to start off any meal or party.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Crispy coconut shrimp is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. These succulent shrimp are coated in a crispy, golden-brown coconut breading and fried to perfection. Serve them with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce for a truly irresistible treat.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a decadent, silky smooth chocolate mousse that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The rich, velvety texture of this dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples and cinnamon in a delightful apple crisp. The crispy, buttery topping adds a delightful contrast to the tender, spiced apples underneath.

Why trust this Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful meal with tender chicken, creamy cheesy orzo, and flavorful zucchini. The combination of chicken broth and half-and-half creates a rich and luscious sauce, while the blend of cheddar and fontina adds a perfect cheesy finish. The use of fresh thyme infuses the dish with aromatic and earthy notes, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Trust in the quality of this recipe, as it has been meticulously crafted to deliver a satisfying and memorable meal.

Want to share your experience making this Skillet Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Zucchini recipe or discuss variations? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta if you don't have orzo on hand. Small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells would work well in this recipe.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with other proteins such as shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.

Can I use different types of cheese for the orzo?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference. Gouda, mozzarella, or parmesan would all work well in this recipe.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the orzo and zucchini mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the orzo and zucchini mixture, then cook the chicken separately and add it to the reheated orzo mixture.