Description
1 cup orzo pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
Fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
Cook orzo according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
While orzo cooks, season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a grill pan over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before
slicing.
In a pan over low heat, combine basil pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and heated through.
Add cooked orzo to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Plate the creamy pesto orzo and top with sliced grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 520 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Halve the cherry tomatoes, toast the pine nuts in a dry pan until golden, and grate the Parmesan cheese if needed.
2. Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Season & Cook Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the pesto, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan. Warm gently, stirring constantly, until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and unified.
5. Combine Pasta & Sauce: Add the drained orzo to the sauce, tossing thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated.
6. Assemble & Serve: Divide the creamy pesto orzo among plates. Top with sliced grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts. Finish with a garnish of fresh basil leaves.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pesto chicken orzo is a complete meal on its own. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. A side of garlic bread or crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. To complement the rich flavors, pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
How-to Summary
This 25-minute meal involves cooking orzo pasta, grilling seasoned chicken breasts, and creating a simple creamy pesto sauce. Combine the sauce with the pasta, then top with sliced chicken, fresh tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and basil for a restaurant-quality dinner at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, small pastas like ditalini, small shells, or even penne work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. You can also use a light pesto sauce.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Absolutely. Use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Simply warm it and add it in step 5 with the orzo.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Is there a substitute for pine nuts? Toasted walnuts, slivered almonds, or sunflower seeds make excellent, more affordable alternatives.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: This leads to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches just 165°F.
- Boiling the Cream Sauce: Heat the pesto-cream mixture only over low heat. Boiling can cause the sauce to separate or become greasy.
- Skipping the Toasting: Toasting the pine nuts is crucial for unlocking their deep, nutty flavor. Don’t skip this quick step.
- Not Salting the Pasta Water: The orzo water should be as salty as the sea. This is your primary chance to season the pasta itself.
Conclusion
This creamy pesto chicken orzo is the epitome of a quick, elegant, and satisfying weeknight dinner. With its harmonious blend of savory pesto, tender chicken, and bright tomatoes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in mere minutes. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a delicious, restaurant-worthy meal in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
