about contact

Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

by
Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and chicken broth creates a rich and zesty sauce that coats the orzo and chicken beautifully.
  • Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together in no time, perfect for busy evenings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Orzo pasta
  • Chicken broth
  • Lemon zest and juice
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  2. Prepare the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo and toss to combine with the remaining oil and browned bits from the chicken.

  3. Add Liquid and Ricotta: Pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and ricotta cheese. Stir until well combined and bring to a simmer.

  4. Combine and Cook: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo mixture. Cover and let it cook until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

  5. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a meatless version.
  • Herb Enhancements: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
  • Cheese Alternatives: Substitute ricotta with mascarpone or cream cheese for a different creamy texture.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells can work, but cooking times may vary.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

Mascarpone or cream cheese can be used as alternatives, though they may alter the flavor slightly.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free ricotta substitute and ensure the broth used is also dairy-free.

Conclusion

The Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. With its creamy texture and zesty notes, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this satisfying meal with minimal cleanup and maximum taste!

Print

Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet

Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a rich and comforting one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights! Juicy chicken, tender orzo, and creamy ricotta come together with zesty lemon for a flavorful, easy-to-make dish the whole family will love.

  • Author: Ava
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pan
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Season chicken with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Orzo:

  1. In the same skillet, add orzo and toss to coat in the remaining oil and browned bits.

Add Liquid and Ricotta:

  1. Pour in chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well.
  2. Add ricotta cheese and mix until combined. Bring to a simmer.

Combine and Cook:

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo.
  2. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Serve:

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.

Notes

  • Variations: Swap ricotta for mascarpone or cream cheese for a different creamy texture. Add spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star