Description
How to make creamy garlic butter pepper Jack chicken orzo with tender pasta and juicy chicken that delivers restaurant-quality comfort in one skillet.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Base
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Flavor Builders
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup white wine or additional chicken broth
Cheese and Seasonings
- 1.5 cups pepper jack cheese, freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while you prep other ingredients – this helps them cook evenly.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove to plate and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add butter to same skillet. Once melted, add diced onion and cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Orzo: Add orzo to skillet and stir for 1 minute to lightly toast. Pour in wine and let it bubble for 30 seconds, then add broth and Italian seasoning.
- Simmer Everything: Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Stir in cream and cooked chicken.
- Add Cheese: Remove from heat and gradually stir in pepper jack cheese until completely melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Finish Dish: Let rest 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley and chives. Serve immediately while hot and creamy for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Don’t add cheese while skillet is on heat or it will curdle and become grainy.
- Stir orzo frequently during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even texture.
- Store in refrigerator up to 3 days; add broth when reheating to loosen sauce.
- Freshly grated cheese melts much smoother than pre-shredded varieties.
- Let finished dish rest 2-3 minutes before serving for perfect creamy consistency.
- Chicken thighs work better than breasts for staying tender and juicy throughout cooking.
Allergy Information: Dairy, Gluten
Nutrition
- Calories: 485 calories
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 32g