Skillet Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Orzo

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into small pieces

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup orzo (uncooked)

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

• Fresh parsley for topping

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken
   Heat olive oil + butter in a large skillet over medium-high.
   Add chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt & pepper.
   Cook 6–7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
   Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics
   Add onion and garlic to the skillet.
   Cook 2–3 minutes until softened.

3. Toast the Orzo
   Add the uncooked orzo and stir for 1 minute to coat in the flavors.

4. Add Liquids & Simmer
   Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
   Stir, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat.
   Cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.

5. Make It Cheesy
   Add mozzarella and Parmesan.
   Stir until melted and creamy.

6. Finish
   Add cooked chicken back in.
   Fold in spinach until wilted.
   Add lemon juice if desired for brightness.

7. Serve
   Top with parsley and extra Parmesan.