Zesty Artichoke Chicken and Parmesan Orzo Recipe for Dinner Joy

Tender chicken meets creamy orzo in this mouthwatering artichoke chicken and parmesan orzo recipe that promises a burst of Mediterranean flavors.

Weeknight dinners just got a delicious upgrade with this simple yet elegant dish.

artichoke hearts add a tangy richness that perfectly complements the succulent chicken pieces.

parmesan cheese melts into the orzo, creating a luxurious base that everyone will love.

Each forkful brings together a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that dance across your palate.

The combination of protein, pasta, and vegetables makes this a complete meal that satisfies from the first bite.

Let’s find out this comforting classic that turns an ordinary evening into a culinary celebration.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 370 kcal

Servings: 5

Artichoke Chicken and Parmesan Orzo Ingredient Rundown

• Chicken Breasts: Tender, lean protein that creates the main dish foundation, choose fresh, plump breasts without discoloration or unusual odors.
• Chicken Broth: Adds rich flavor and moisture, select low-sodium versions for better control of dish's saltiness.

• Garlic: Provides deep, robust flavor profile, select firm cloves without sprouts or soft spots.
• Yellow Onion: Builds flavor complexity, choose firm onions with smooth, papery skin.
• Thyme: Introduces earthy, subtle herbal notes, opt for fresh sprigs for more vibrant taste.
• Basil: Brings sweet, peppery undertones, select bright green leaves without wilting.
• Fresh Parsley: Offers bright, fresh finish, choose crisp leaves with vivid green color.

• Artichokes: Adds creamy, slightly nutty texture, select well-drained, tender pieces.
• Lemon Juice: Provides zesty brightness, choose ripe, heavy lemons with smooth skin.
• Butter: Creates silky, rich finish, use high-quality, unsalted butter for best results.
• Parmesan Cheese: Delivers sharp, salty depth, select freshly grated for most intense flavor.
• Olive Oil: Ensures smooth sautéing, choose extra virgin for best taste.
• Orzo: Serves as tender pasta base, select high-quality pasta for ideal texture.
• Coarse Salt and Black Pepper: Enhances overall seasoning, use freshly ground for maximum impact.

Tools for Making Artichoke Chicken and Parmesan Orzo

• Baking dish or casserole pan (9×13 inches): Essential for baking chicken evenly.
• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing onions, garlic, and creating the artichoke sauce.
• Plastic wrap: Helps pound chicken to an even thickness.
• Measuring spoons: For precise seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Cutting board: Ideal for chopping onions, garlic, and parsley.
• Sharp knife: Needed for precise ingredient preparation.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and mixing ingredients.
• Colander: Useful for draining orzo.
• Grater: Required for preparing Parmesan cheese.

How to Cook Artichoke Chicken with Parmesan Orzo

• Oven Preparation Kitchen Setup

Crank the oven to a toasty 425 degrees. Grab a 9×13 baking dish and give it a quick butter massage to prevent sticking.

• Chicken Prep

Take chicken breasts and give them a gentle pounding between plastic wrap until they’re uniformly thin. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, creating a delicate seasoning blanket.

• Flavor Foundation

In a skillet, dance some olive oil over medium heat. Introduce onions, thyme, and basil, letting them mingle and soften. Toss in garlic for an aromatic punch that’ll make taste buds tingle.

• Artichoke Magic

Bring artichokes into the party, splashing wine and broth for moisture. Let everything bubble and whisper together for a couple minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice for brightness.

• Baking Transformation

Slide the skillet’s contents over the chicken in the baking dish. Let the oven work its transformative magic for about 25 minutes until chicken is perfectly cooked.

• Orzo Companion

While chicken bakes, prepare orzo. Once done, fold in Parmesan, parsley, and a splash of remaining broth. Season subtly to complement the chicken’s rich flavors.

• Final Flourish

Pull chicken from the oven, crown each piece with a small butter pat. Serve alongside the creamy, herbed orzo for a meal that sings with comfort and elegance.

Tips for Flavorful Chicken and Parmesan Orzo

• Swap dried herbs for fresh ones to intensify the aromatic profile and elevate the overall taste of the dish.
• Replace chicken breasts with thighs or turkey cutlets for a different texture and flavor experience while maintaining the recipe's core essence.
• When white wine isn't available, use chicken broth with a splash of apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar to maintain the tangy undertone.
• Toss in additional vegetables like spinach, roasted bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms to increase nutritional value and create more complex flavor layers.
• Prepare the chicken and artichoke mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator to develop deeper flavors before baking.

Serving Artichoke Chicken and Parmesan Orzo with Ease

• Elegant Plating Paradise: Arrange chicken atop a bed of creamy orzo, letting the artichoke sauce cascade elegantly over the protein for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
• Mediterranean Feast Companion: Serve with a crisp Greek salad featuring cucumber, tomatoes, and kalamata olives to complement the dish's herbal and tangy flavors.
• Wine and Dine Delight: Pair with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the lemony, herbal notes of the artichoke chicken and bring out subtle wine undertones.
• Fresh Herb Finish: Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or fresh thyme leaves just before serving to add a vibrant pop of color and boost the aromatic profile of the entire meal.

Storage Tips for Artichoke Chicken and Orzo

• Smart Portioning: Divide the chicken and orzo into individual meal-sized containers for quick grab-and-go lunches during busy weekdays. Perfect for meal prepping professionals and students wanting nutritious homemade meals.
• Refrigeration Strategy: Store cooked chicken and orzo separately in airtight containers to maintain optimal texture. Consume within 3-4 days for maximum freshness and flavor preservation. Keep refrigerated at 40°F or lower to prevent bacterial growth.
• Freezer-Friendly Option: Wrap individual chicken portions in freezer-safe wrap or containers. Freeze up to 2 months for later enjoyment. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating gently to prevent moisture loss and maintain tender chicken texture.
• Reheating Wisdom: Warm chicken in microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. For orzo, add a splash of chicken broth while reheating to restore creamy consistency. Avoid repeated reheating to keep ingredients tasting fresh and delicious.

Creamy Artichoke Chicken and Parmesan Orzo Recipe

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4.6 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Delightful Chicken Artichoke Parmesan Orzo combines Mediterranean flavors with creamy textures. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a comforting meal perfect for sharing with friends and family.

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Ingredients

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• 3 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless (or 4)
• 8 oz (226 g) artichokes, frozen (partially thawed) or canned (drained)
• 8 oz (226 g) orzo
• 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp basil
• ½ cup (15 g) fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsps butter, chilled, cut into ½-inch cubes
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Coarse salt, to taste
• Fresh black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep Chicken: Gently flatten chicken breasts to 1/2 inch thickness, season with salt and pepper, then arrange in a buttered 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Aromatic Base: In a skillet over medium-low heat, sauté onions with thyme and basil until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook briefly to release flavors, then incorporate artichoke hearts.
3. Flavor Infusion: Deglaze the skillet with white wine and chicken broth, seasoning lightly. Simmer for two minutes to harmonize the components, then remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice.
4. Baking Process: Pour the artichoke mixture over the seasoned chicken, then roast in a preheated 425°F oven for 25 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Orzo Accompaniment: Cook orzo according to package instructions, then blend with remaining chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Season to taste and adjust consistency.
6. Final Touch: Remove chicken from oven, top with a small butter pat, and serve immediately alongside the Parmesan-infused orzo.

Notes

• Chicken Thickness Matters: Uniformly flatten chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
• Wine Selection Tip: Choose a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the artichoke and chicken flavors.
• Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches exactly 165°F for food safety and optimal juiciness.
• Herb Freshness Booster: Use fresh herbs instead of dried for more vibrant, aromatic flavor in the artichoke mixture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking, Sautéing, Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg