Creamy Mushroom Orzo with Pan-Seared Chicken: One Skillet Comfort in 30 Minutes

When the craving hits for something creamy, savory, and soul-warming, this Creamy Mushroom Orzo with Pan-Seared Chicken delivers on every level. It’s a one-skillet wonder that balances rich textures and deep umami flavors, all while keeping things approachable enough for a weeknight dinner. With perfectly golden chicken, tender mushrooms, and orzo pasta swirled in a luscious parmesan cream sauce, this dish hits the sweet spot between indulgent and wholesome.

What Is Creamy Mushroom Orzo with Pan-Seared Chicken?
It’s a one-pan meal where seasoned chicken breasts are seared until crispy and juicy, then sliced and served over a creamy bed of orzo pasta simmered with mushrooms, garlic, and parmesan. The orzo acts almost like risotto, soaking up all the savory broth and cream, while the mushrooms bring earthiness and the chicken adds protein and texture. It’s a modern comfort food classic made for busy nights.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
This dish is rich and creamy, yet surprisingly light in preparation. The orzo mimics risotto’s creamy finish without requiring constant stirring, and the entire meal is made in one skillet for easy cleanup. The chicken is juicy with crispy edges, the mushrooms soak up all the garlic and butter, and the parmesan sauce ties everything together with pure decadence. It feels fancy, but it’s fuss-free.

How Does It Taste?
Creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and slightly peppery with that unmistakable earthiness from sautéed mushrooms. The chicken brings a crispy, savory bite that pairs beautifully with the silky orzo. Each spoonful is packed with flavor and contrast—tender pasta, meaty mushrooms, and juicy chicken balanced with sharp parmesan and fresh herbs.

Health & Ingredient Benefits
Mushrooms are packed with B vitamins and antioxidants, orzo is a satisfying base that cooks quickly, and chicken breast brings lean protein to the plate. Garlic offers anti-inflammatory properties, and fresh parsley boosts vitamin C. Plus, using half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream is an easy way to lighten the sauce while keeping it luscious.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the chicken:
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter

For the mushroom orzo:
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
8 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Extra parmesan, for topping

Tools You’ll Need
Large deep skillet or sauté pan
Tongs
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Grater (for parmesan)
Wooden spoon or spatula
Lid or foil (to rest chicken)

Optional Substitutions & Additions
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor
Swap cremini for shiitake or white button mushrooms
Add baby spinach in the final minutes for color and nutrients
Use whole milk instead of cream for a lighter sauce
Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian base (omit chicken)
Add a splash of white wine after sautéing mushrooms for extra depth

How to Make

1. Season the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to rest.
3. Add olive oil and butter to the same pan. Sauté mushrooms until browned and tender, about 6–8 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the orzo and toast it briefly with the mushrooms.
6. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and reduce heat to medium-low. Stir occasionally until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 10–12 minutes.
7. Add half-and-half and parmesan, stirring until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet on top of the orzo.
9. Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan. Serve warm.

What to Serve With
Serve this dish with a simple green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a glass of chilled white wine like chardonnay or sauvignon blanc. It also pairs well with steamed broccoli, grilled asparagus, or lemony green beans.

Tips for Success
Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking
Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices
Use freshly grated parmesan it melts smoother and adds better flavor
Keep an eye on the orzo it can overcook quickly once the liquid is absorbed
Stir gently to avoid sticking at the bottom of the pan

Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using pre-shredded parmesan it won’t melt as smoothly
Not seasoning the chicken enough this builds base flavor
Overcrowding the mushrooms they need space to brown, not steam
Rushing the orzo undercooked or mushy orzo throws off the dish
Letting the cream boil keep heat low to prevent curdling

How to Store & Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce. This dish does not freeze well due to the cream sauce and orzo texture.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead? Yes cook everything and reheat with a bit of broth or milk.
Can I make it vegetarian? Absolutely skip the chicken and use veggie broth. Add more mushrooms or spinach.
Can I use rice instead of orzo? Not recommended here, but arborio rice could work if cooked risotto-style.
Is it spicy? No, but feel free to add crushed red pepper if you like heat.
Can I double it? Yes! Use a larger pan and double all ingredients.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving)
Calories: 560
Protein: 38g
Fat: 24g
Carbs: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 420mg

Conclusion
Creamy Mushroom Orzo with Pan-Seared Chicken is a dish you’ll come back to again and again. It’s cozy yet elegant, indulgent yet simple, and makes for the perfect one-pan dinner when you want something comforting without hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a dinner party with friends, this skillet recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.

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August 18, 2025 by Melissa