Description
Saucy, cheesy and covered in a savory parmesan streusel, my One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Orzo combines all your favorite chicken parm flavors in a simple one-pot meal that’s on the table in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 and 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 and ½ cups dry uncooked orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For the topping
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, for garnishing
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large (10- to 12-inch) oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with the salt, pepper and Italian seasoning. Add to the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the orzo and stir for about 1 minute to lightly toast it.
- Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring often, for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the heavy cream, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1/2 cup Parmesan and let simmer for another 5-10 minutes or until melted and creamy.
- Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella evenly over the top.
- In a small bowl, combine the panko, 1 tablespoon Parmesan, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Sprinkle evenly over the mozzarella.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the panko is lightly golden. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra grated Parmesan before serving, if desired.