Description
This creamy orzo dinner is a comforting and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week. Tender pasta, a velvety sauce, and flavorful herbs come together in one pan to create a cozy dish the whole family will enjoy. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and offers restaurant-quality flavor right at home.
Ingredients
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1 ½ cups orzo pasta
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 medium onion, finely diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
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3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
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1 cup milk or half-and-half
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup spinach or kale, roughly chopped
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
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Add the orzo and stir to coat it in the oil and butter.
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Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo begins to soften.
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Add the cooked chicken and stir to combine.
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Pour in the milk or half-and-half, cooking until the sauce thickens.
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Add Parmesan cheese, thyme, and oregano.
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Stir in spinach or kale until wilted.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
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Add extra broth or milk if the sauce becomes too thick.
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Replace chicken with mushrooms or vegetables for a vegetarian version.
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Use gluten-free orzo if needed.
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Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of liquid to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes