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Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo Recipe

Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo Recipe

  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if orzo is substituted with gluten-free pasta)

Description

Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo is a quick and easy one-pan dinner that combines tender chicken breasts, creamy white pesto, and flavorful orzo pasta simmered in chicken broth. This comforting, cheesy dish is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal cleanup and offering a balanced, nutritious meal with plenty of room for customization.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 1/3 cup white pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Pasta and Liquids

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth

Dairy

  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Fats

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor and help form a golden crust.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden but slightly undercooked inside, as they will finish cooking with the orzo later. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Add Orzo: Lower the heat slightly. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the orzo and toast lightly to bring out a nutty flavor.
  4. Incorporate Broth and Pesto: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine with the orzo. Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet and spoon the white pesto over everything. Cover and simmer gently for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Remove the cover and sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dish. Let it melt into the creamy sauce, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the chicken during searing; slightly undercooked is best as it finishes cooking with the orzo.
  • Use fresh or high-quality store-bought white pesto to elevate the flavors.
  • Toast the orzo in olive oil before adding broth for improved texture and flavor.
  • Simmer on low heat to prevent burning the pesto and drying out the chicken.
  • Adjust broth quantity slightly depending on your skillet and orzo brand for perfect creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: white pesto chicken, orzo, one skillet dinner, creamy chicken recipe, quick dinner, easy weeknight meal

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Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/skillet-white-pesto-chicken-and-orzo-recipe/