Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo Recipe
Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Tender chicken cooked in a creamy white pesto sauce served with flavorful orzo pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Ingredients for Skillet White Pesto Chicken:
- ½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, oil drained
- 6 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- kosher salt and black pepper
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp salted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
Ingredients for Orzo:
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- chili flakes
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup basil pesto
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Drain 3 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomato jar into a large skillet with sides. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes and set aside.
- Season and cook the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken through the flour and toss to coat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden, then remove from the skillet.
- Cook the orzo: In the same skillet, add butter, garlic, orzo, and chili flakes. Cook until golden, then add broth, cream, pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes. Return the chicken to the skillet, sprinkle with parmesan, and bake for 10 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the chicken, orzo, and sauce topped with fresh thyme.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
