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High-angle close-up of ivory orzo pasta coated in a pale-cream Parmesan sauce with golden chicken chunks. (Creamy Chicken Orzo)

Creamy Chicken Orzo with Seared Cremini Mushrooms and Spinach

A luxurious one-pan Creamy Chicken Orzo featuring golden-brown seared chicken, caramelized cremini mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a glossy Parmesan cream sauce. Perfectly balanced and restaurant-quality for the enthusiastic home cook.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Calories: 580
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast Cut into 1-inch bite-sized chunks (450g)
  • 1.5 cups Dry Orzo Pasta Ivory-colored grains (300g)
  • 8 oz Cremini Mushrooms Sliced (225g)
  • 3 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Packed (90g)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (240ml)
  • 0.75 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated (75g)
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth (720ml)
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil For searing (30ml)
  • 1 tbsp Butter For mushrooms (15g)
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced (15g)
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley Minced (8g)

Equipment

  • 1 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet Essential for even searing and heat retention.
  • 1 Wooden spoon For deglazing and stirring the orzo grains.

Method
 

Sear and Sauté
  1. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet. Add chicken chunks and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden-brown. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add butter and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until caramelized edges appear. Add garlic and shallots for the last minute.
Build the Orzo Base
  1. Stir in dry orzo for 2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and deglaze the pan. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until liquid is mostly absorbed.
  2. Stir in heavy cream, seared chicken, and Parmesan. Stir until glossy. Fold in spinach until wilted and vibrant green.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before searing to ensure a deep golden crust.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, glossy sauce emulsion.