Description
How to make creamy smoky buffalo white cheddar chicken orzo with tender pasta and bold flavors that satisfy every comfort food craving in one bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Flavor Builders
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Creamy Elements
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry and season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let sit 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In same skillet, add diced onion and cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant and aromatic.
- Add Liquids: Stir in buffalo sauce, then gradually add chicken broth and orzo. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Create Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and cubed cream cheese. Whisk constantly until cream cheese melts completely and sauce becomes smooth and velvety.
- Add Cheese: Remove from heat and gradually stir in grated white cheddar cheese until melted. Add cooked chicken back to skillet and toss to combine everything perfectly.
- Finish Dish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more buffalo sauce. Garnish with fresh chives and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Remove from heat before adding cheese to prevent seizing and graininess.
- Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days maximum.
- Use freshly grated cheese for smoothest melting and best texture results.
- Adjust buffalo sauce amount based on your preferred spice level tolerance.
- Add splash of broth when reheating to restore creamy consistency perfectly.
- Let seasoned chicken rest 5 minutes before cooking for better flavor absorption.
Allergy Information: Dairy, Gluten
Nutrition
- Calories: 485 calories
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 35g