Creamy Chicken with Artichokes and Orzo! 🍝

Introduction

I recently tried my hand at a delightful new recipe, Creamy Chicken with Artichokes and Orzo, and it quickly became a favorite in my household. The combination of tender chicken, marinated artichokes, and creamy orzo pasta created a comforting dish that my family couldn’t get enough of. The flavors melded beautifully, and I loved how easy it was to prepare. As I served it up for dinner, I was met with smiles and compliments all around, making this dish a new staple in our weeknight rotation.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken cutlets (or 2 boneless chicken breasts, halved horizontally)
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 12 ounces marinated artichokes, drained
• 1 shallot, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 3/4 cup dry Marsala wine
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken cutlets with salt and black pepper. In a shallow dish, combine the flour and garlic powder. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and sear until golden and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side. During the last 2 minutes, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet to enhance flavor. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the drained artichokes. Cook without stirring for 2 minutes until the artichokes start to brown. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, chopped shallot, chopped garlic, thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Orzo:
Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast it. Deglaze the pan with Marsala wine, then add the chicken broth. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.

Finish the Dish:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Return the chicken to the skillet, add lemon juice, and simmer everything together for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly warmed.

Serve:
Plate the chicken and creamy orzo, garnishing with additional fresh thyme leaves to enhance the flavor.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 620

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Plate the creamy orzo alongside the chicken for an appealing presentation.
• Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for added flavor and a pop of color.
• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for an elevated dining experience.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh thyme and garlic elevate the dish’s flavor, so opt for them when possible.
2. Cook the Orzo Al Dente: This ensures that the orzo maintains a slight bite and doesn’t become mushy in the creamy sauce.
3. Adjust the Creaminess: Feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream for a lighter dish, or add more if you prefer extra creaminess.
4. Store Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
5. Add More Veggies: Incorporate spinach or peas for added nutrition and color.

Recipe Variations

• Herbed Chicken: Substitute fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Lemon Chicken: Add more lemon juice or zest for a brighter, tangy taste.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Different Pasta: Try using another pasta shape like penne or farfalle if you don’t have orzo on hand.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with roasted vegetables to add more nutrition to your meal.
• A simple garlic bread on the side can complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
• For an Italian twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the creamy chicken and orzo dish for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems dry.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen artichokes?
   Yes, frozen artichokes can be used; just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding to the dish.
2. Is there a substitute for Marsala wine?
   If you don’t have Marsala wine, a dry white wine or chicken broth can work as a substitute.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the orzo fresh just before serving.
4. What other herbs can I use?
   Basil or parsley can also complement this dish beautifully if you prefer them over thyme.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and orzo.
6. How can I make it spicier?
   Add more crushed red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
7. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
   Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and juiciness.
8. What sides pair well with this dish?
   A simple green salad or steamed asparagus makes for great sides.
9. Is this dish kid-friendly?
   Yes, the creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to kids.
10. Can I replace heavy cream with a lighter option?
    Yes, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be less creamy.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken with Artichokes and Orzo is a dish that combines comfort and elegance effortlessly. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night in. The rich flavors of the creamy sauce, paired with the tender chicken and artichokes, make this meal not only satisfying but also incredibly enjoyable. Give this recipe a try, and I guarantee it will become a favorite in your kitchen, just as it has in mine!

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