When it comes to busy weeknights, cooking can feel like a daunting task. But fear not! With these 20 delicious chicken breast and orzo recipes, you’ll be well on your way to creating mouthwatering meals that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and cheesy or light and refreshing, our list has a recipe that’s sure to satisfy.
So go ahead, take a deep breath, and let the stress of mealtime melt away. With these recipes, you’ll be whipping up tasty chicken breast and orzo dishes in no time!
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast with Orzo
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and lemon with the nutty goodness of orzo, creating a deliciously well-rounded dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the garlic-lemon mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
6. Serve chicken breasts atop orzo pasta, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo Bake
A rich and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce with the comfort of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, onion, and garlic. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked orzo pasta with the chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Breast and Orzo Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with succulent chicken breast, perfectly cooked orzo, and a medley of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture on both sides of chicken breasts.
4. Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss cooked orzo with diced red bell pepper, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the orzo mixture.
7. Drizzle lemon juice over the top and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Orzo Skillet
Get ready to spice up your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful one-pot wonder! This hearty skillet combines juicy chicken, spicy Cajun seasoning, and nutty orzo for a satisfying meal that’s on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup Orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Orzo pasta, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the Orzo is tender.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Breast with Orzo
A flavorful and healthy dish that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the tenderness of chicken breast, all on a bed of nutty orzo. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the orzo according to package instructions.
4. In a small bowl, mix together chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic.
5. Serve chicken breasts on top of cooked orzo, spooning the sun-dried tomato mixture over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Breast and Orzo Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the tenderness of chicken breast with the nutty goodness of orzo, all cooked in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 3 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, cook the chicken breast over medium-high heat until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, orzo pasta, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and transfer the pot to the oven.
6. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herb-Roasted Chicken Breast with Orzo Pilaf
This flavorful and aromatic dish combines the tender taste of chicken breast with a nutty orzo pilaf, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the herb mixture evenly over each breast.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
6. In a large skillet, combine cooked orzo, water, and chopped parsley. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast with Orzo
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and satisfying recipe, combining the richness of spinach and feta cheese with the tender juiciness of chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach leaves, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
5. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
7. Serve warm with cooked orzo pasta.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast and Orzo
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful combination of juicy chicken breast, sweet balsamic glaze, and nutty orzo. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a busy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
4. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Brush both sides with the balsamic glaze.
5. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve chicken with cooked orzo, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Chicken Breast with Orzo and Roasted Vegetables
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a twist on classic chicken and pasta, featuring roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss roasted vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
6. To serve, place cooked chicken breast on top of orzo pasta, then spoon roasted vegetables alongside. Drizzle with pesto and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Breast and Orzo Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy chicken breast with creamy orzo and melted cheese inside tender bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked chicken breast with orzo, mozzarella cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-orzo mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai-Inspired Coconut Chicken Breast and Orzo
Discover the bold flavors of Thailand in this aromatic and creamy one-pot dish. Tender chicken breast, succulent orzo, and a rich coconut sauce come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add orzo and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Breast with Orzo and Asparagus
Savor the rich flavors of this classic combination: tender chicken breast smothered in garlic butter, served atop a bed of nutty orzo and paired with fresh asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh asparagus, trimmed (1 pound)
– Lemon wedges, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook in the skillet for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Toss asparagus with a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet; roast at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
6. Serve chicken breasts atop cooked orzo, with roasted asparagus on the side. Squeeze with lemon juice, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
BBQ Chicken Breast and Orzo Bowl
Transform chicken breast into a mouthwatering main course with this easy recipe, paired with a flavorful orzo bowl.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the BBQ mixture.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Toss sliced onion and minced garlic with salt, pepper, and a pinch of olive oil. Roast in the oven alongside chicken for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
7. Combine cooked orzo, roasted vegetables, and mixed greens in a bowl.
8. Slice grilled chicken breasts and place on top of the orzo bowl.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Breast and Orzo Soup with Kale
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender chicken, nutty orzo, and wilted kale. A simple and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves (curly or lacinato work well)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken breast and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
6. Stir in the kale leaves and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Citrus-Marinated Chicken Breast with Orzo
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this refreshing citrus-marinated chicken breast paired with creamy orzo. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
4. Grill or bake the marinated chicken breasts until cooked through (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Serve with warm orzo and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Breast and Orzo Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
A flavorful and quick-cooking stir-fry that combines the tender chicken breast, nutty orzo pasta, and savory soy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add bell peppers to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in soy sauce and cooked chicken back into the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked orzo pasta with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Rosemary Chicken Breast with Orzo and Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and satisfying recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion. The combination of tender chicken breast, nutty orzo, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic rosemary is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped rosemary and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve chicken breasts atop orzo pasta, topped with sautéed mushrooms and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Breast and Orzo Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Elevate your zucchini game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a light summer meal. Tender chicken breast and creamy orzo mingle with the natural sweetness of zucchini in this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a skillet, cook chicken breast until cooked through. Chop into small pieces.
4. Mix cooked orzo, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and chicken breast in a bowl.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the orzo mixture.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the boats and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Breast with Orzo and Peas
Smoky Paprika Chicken Breast with Orzo and Peas Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, featuring smoky paprika chicken breast served over a creamy orzo and pea pilaf.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the paprika mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
6. Add frozen peas to the orzo during the last minute of cooking.
7. Serve chicken breasts on top of orzo pilaf and sprinkle with feta cheese (if using). Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-27 minutes
Summary
Get ready to shake up your weeknight dinners with these 20 mouth-watering chicken breast and orzo recipes! From classic comfort dishes like creamy parmesan bakes to international-inspired stir-fries, there’s something for every taste. Try lemon garlic chicken with orzo, spicy cajun chicken skillet, or Mediterranean salad featuring grilled chicken and roasted veggies. With a range of flavors and textures, you’ll never get bored with these easy-to-make recipes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
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