Description
How to make creamy BBQ ranch white cheddar chicken orzo with tender pasta and bold flavors that creates the perfect comfort meal in one pot.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Base
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Flavor Builders
- ⅓ cup BBQ sauce, plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing mix packet
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sour cream
Cheese & Seasonings
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and ready for searing.
- Sear Chicken: Add seasoned chicken to hot oil and cook 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken to plate and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion to same skillet and cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant and golden.
- Build Base: Stir in BBQ sauce, ranch mix, chicken broth, and orzo pasta. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer 12-15 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Add Cream: Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes of gentle stirring.
- Melt Cheese: Remove from heat and gradually add grated white cheddar, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Return chicken to skillet and gently fold together.
- Finish Dish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately while hot and creamy for best results.
Notes
- Remove pan from heat before adding cheese to prevent graining and separation.
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days maximum.
- Freshly grated cheese melts much smoother than pre-shredded varieties.
- Add splash of broth when reheating to restore creamy consistency.
- Double recipe easily for larger families or meal prep portions.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end since cheese adds saltiness.
Allergy Information: Dairy, Gluten
Nutrition
- Calories: 485 calories
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 32g