If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you absolutely must try the Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet Recipe. This one-pan wonder combines tender, golden chicken with earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and orzo pasta cooked perfectly in a luscious ricotta-infused sauce. The melody of flavors from garlic, tangy white apple vinegar, and fresh herbs creates something truly special that’s cozy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests. Each bite promises creamy, comforting satisfaction that lingers long after the last forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using everyday ingredients that each play an essential role in building taste, texture, and that inviting color palette. From the rich creaminess of ricotta to the gentle bite of orzo, every component adds depth and balance to the dish.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a fruity, aromatic base perfect for sautéing and browning your chicken.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: The lean protein that cooks up juicy and golden to pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons each element perfectly.
- Black pepper: Provides just the right amount of mild heat and earthiness.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brings classic Mediterranean notes to the dish.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle kick to awaken the palate without overpowering the creaminess.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse the dish with their unmistakable pungency and warmth.
- Shallot: Delivers a subtle sweetness that softens and balances flavors.
- Baby bella mushrooms: Bring an earthy richness and meaty texture that complements the chicken.
- Baby spinach: Adds freshness, vibrant green color, and a mild vegetal flavor.
- Uncooked orzo pasta: The star starch that soaks up the sauce, lending a luscious, creamy texture.
- Dry white apple vinegar: Brightens the dish with a hint of acidity that cuts through the richness.
- Low sodium chicken broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid that keeps the orzo tender and infused.
- Whole milk ricotta cheese: The creamy heart of the sauce, making the dish irresistibly silky and smooth.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates a golden, bubbly topping that’s gooey and irresistible.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Add a fresh herbal aroma and beautiful color contrast when serving.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures the final bake finishes the dish perfectly, melting the mozzarella and blending all those juicy flavors into one harmonious whole.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken breasts generously with kosher salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sear the chicken until golden brown on all sides, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning here locks in flavor and adds a delightful texture. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside for the moment.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
In the same skillet, toss in minced garlic, finely chopped shallot, and sliced baby bella mushrooms. Cook until everything softens and becomes fragrant, around 4 minutes. Then add the baby spinach, tossing just until wilted—this only takes about 2 minutes. Pour in the dry white apple vinegar and let it reduce by half; this little splash adds a lovely brightness that balances the richer ingredients beautifully.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Orzo Base
Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta, low sodium chicken broth, a bit of lemon zest and juice for zestiness, a pinch of salt, and the creamy whole milk ricotta cheese. Mix everything thoroughly so that the ricotta starts to melt into the broth, creating a luscious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Gently nestle the chicken pieces back into the skillet, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top. Pop the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden. Allow the dish to rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and the cheese to firm up just right.
How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the perfect finishing touch, adding color and a herbaceous note that lifts the entire dish. You can also sprinkle a little cracked black pepper or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for extra shine and flavor.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add some crunch or a fresh bite, a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables make great companions without overshadowing the creamy centerpiece.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve straight from the skillet to keep that rustic, homey vibe that invites everyone to dig in. For a more elegant presentation, spoon portions into shallow bowls and garnish each with a basil leaf and a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan, adding a salty finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy orzo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making your second helping even better. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to save portions for busy days. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Heat until warmed through and creamy texture is restored.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of ricotta?
While ricotta is key for the creamy texture and mild flavor, you could try substituting with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar creaminess, but the taste and consistency will vary slightly.
Is it possible to use whole wheat orzo instead of regular?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber, making this skillet even heartier and nutritious.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping ricotta and mozzarella for dairy-free cheese alternatives, you can still enjoy a creamy dish, though the texture may be less rich.
What can I substitute for white apple vinegar?
If you don’t have white apple vinegar, a mild white wine vinegar or lemon juice will work to provide the bright acidity that balances the richness.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet Recipe reheats beautifully and tastes great as leftovers, making it an excellent option for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
You really cannot go wrong with the Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet Recipe. It’s a comforting, yet elegant meal that’s perfect anytime you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients transformed into a rich and delicious dish, it’s a new favorite waiting to happen. So grab your skillet and get cooking—your next cozy dinner is just a few steps away!
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Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy ricotta chicken and orzo skillet is a comforting one-pan meal featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms and spinach, and creamy orzo pasta baked to bubbly perfection with mozzarella cheese. A touch of white apple vinegar adds a subtle tang, complemented by fresh basil garnish for a deliciously balanced dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups baby spinach
Others
- 1 tablespoon dry white apple vinegar
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the skillet dish.
- Cook Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken breast with half the salt and pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the garlic, shallots, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 4 minutes until softened. Add the baby spinach and toss for 2 minutes until wilted. Stir in the dry white apple vinegar and cook until the vinegar reduces by half, concentrating its flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked orzo pasta, chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, remaining salt and pepper, and ricotta cheese to the skillet. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the orzo is submerged in the liquid. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spreading it evenly over the mixture.
- Bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 3 to 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the orzo to finish cooking. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet such as cast iron or stainless steel to go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
- Make sure to reduce the vinegar by half to avoid overpowering acidity.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a little more ricotta before baking if desired.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried Italian herbs if needed.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
