Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo with Cheese – Creamy, Cheesy, One-Skillet Comfort

There’s something undeniably comforting about a creamy, cheesy one-skillet meal that comes together effortlessly. This Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo with Cheese is the ultimate weeknight dinner—rich, flavorful, and packed with tender chicken, al dente orzo, and a luscious garlic-butter sauce. Best of all, it cooks in just one pan, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or just craving a cozy meal, this dish delivers. The combination of garlic, butter, and melted cheese creates a decadent sauce that coats every bite, while the orzo soaks up all the delicious flavors. Ready in under 45 minutes, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves hearty, restaurant-quality meals at home.

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Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo with Cheese

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 ½ cups (300g) uncooked orzo pasta

• 3 cups (720ml) low-sodium chicken broth

• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream

• 4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Sear the Chicken

• In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.

• Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.

• Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic

• In the same skillet, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.

• Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).

3. Toast the Orzo

• Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet and stir to coat in the garlic butter. Toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.

4. Simmer with Broth & Cream

• Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.

• Add onion powder and red pepper flakes (if using).

• Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low-medium (simmer).

• Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

5. Add Cheese & Chicken

• Stir in the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing well.

• Simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce.

6. Garnish & Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

• Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.

• Serve immediately while hot and creamy!

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Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo:

✅ Chicken Choices: Thighs stay juicier, but breasts work too—just don’t overcook them.
✅ Orzo Substitutes: If you don’t have orzo, use risotto rice, small pasta, or couscous (adjust liquid as needed).
✅ Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella for provolone, Gruyère, or fontina for extra richness.
✅ Creaminess Control: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream.
✅ Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but note it won’t be as rich.

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Why This Recipe Works:

🔥 One-Pan Wonder – No need for multiple pots; everything cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup.
🧀 Ultra-Creamy & Cheesy – Three kinds of cheese melt into a velvety sauce.
🍗 Perfectly Seasoned Chicken – The blend of garlic, butter, and spices ensures deep flavor.
⏱️ Quick & Easy – Ready in 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.

• Side Salad – A crisp Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness.

• Roasted Vegetables – Try asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for added nutrition.

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Storage & Reheating:

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

• Freezer: Not recommended, as the dairy may separate upon thawing.

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Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo with Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s a restaurant-quality meal made effortlessly at home, perfect for weeknights or impressing guests. The combination of tender chicken, garlic butter, and melted cheese over perfectly cooked orzo is simply irresistible.

Give it a try tonight and enjoy a cozy, satisfying dish that everyone will love!

Would you like any variations, such as adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes? Let me know how it turns out! 🍽️